Govt could possibly present policy statement to Parliament Tuesday: PM

Govt could possibly present policy statement to Parliament Tuesday: PM

BANGKOK, Dec 29 (TNA) -- Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said there is still a possibility that his coalition government could present its policy statement to Parliament on Tuesday after it failed to deliver it on Monday due to a massive protest by the United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) in front of the chamber building.

Without elaborating what tactics he would use with the UDD protesters opposing his newly-appointed government, Mr. Abhisit said no violence or special law would be issued to deal with those who are now encamped at Parliament.

Several ways, including negotiations, were implemented on Monday and there are hopes that the government could present its policy statement without using force against the protesters, Mr. Abhisit said.

"The government will not use force to disperse the demonstrators. We will continue to negotiate. What has happened today will not affect the government's plans," said the prime minister.

If it succeeds, members of parliament and officials may have to attend the session on Wednesday, which is New Year's Eve and a public holiday as well, he said.

There is still no need for the military to give help to the police who are providing security at the chamber, he said, adding that reinforcements are possible if the police want assistance.

The country has suffered several problems already and it is now about time to heal and pull it out of crisis, he said.

Mr. Abhisit reiterated that he would return power to the people when the right time comes. (TNA)