Bangkok: The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has sounded an alarm over drastic budget cuts for seminars, urging the main parliamentary committee to immediately review the decision and ensure transparency by broadcasting the proceedings live.

According to Thai News Agency, MPs from the People's Party have expressed concerns about the subcommittee responsible for training, seminars, and public relations. They have urged a thorough review of the budget allocations for these activities, highlighting that the recent cuts appear to be superficial. Mr. Phantil Nuamjerm, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party, held a press conference to draw attention to the ongoing budget review conducted by the Sub-committee on Training, Seminars, Public Relations, and related expenses. He questioned the subcommittee's role, suggesting that it might be more of an approval mechanism rather than a scrutinizing body.

The subcommittee's focus is on discretionary expenditures like seminar costs and consultant fees, rather than essential public services such as civil servant salaries and healthcare benefits. Agencies are expected to justify the necessity and cost-effectiveness of their expenditures. However, past reviews revealed a lack of clear explanations and tangible results for many projects. Often, agencies propose minor budget reductions, which are seen as symbolic gestures rather than meaningful savings.

The PAD has proposed guidelines to ensure the cost-effectiveness of national budget considerations. They are calling for the main Budget Committee to review items lacking complete explanations, particularly budgets for seminars and consultant fees. The PAD also advocates for public transparency by requesting live broadcasts of subcommittee meetings to reassure taxpayers that their money is being protected and that the budgetary process is not a mere formality.