Bangkok: The Secretary-General of the House of Representatives clarified the cancellation of the remuneration increase for assistants to MPs and Senators, stating it was to align with the economic context and confirming it was unrelated to the case of impersonation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siroj Paetpan, Secretary-General of the House of Representatives, addressed the press after the publication in the Royal Gazette regarding the repeal of compensation adjustment regulations. He emphasized that the move only affects the planned increase in compensation and does not eliminate the positions of assistants to MPs or Senators. The decision to maintain the original compensation rates aligns with the policy of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, who deemed an increase inappropriate for the current economic situation.
Mr. Siroj elaborated that the Parliamentary Civil Service Commission had initially approved a remuneration increase in March 2025, effective from October 1, 2026. This increase was intended for various parliamentary assistants and advisors. However, upon assuming office in March 2026, Speaker of the House Mr. Sophon Saram decided to cancel the increase, citing the country's economic and financial context. Consequently, the Civil Service Commission approved the cancellation, leading to the exclusion of this budget from the fiscal year 2027 planning.
The proposed remuneration increase had aimed to counteract a projected 20% rise in the cost of living. Despite this, the Speaker decided that maintaining current rates was more prudent. Presently, assistants to Members of Parliament earn approximately 15,000 baht monthly, while experts receive 24,000 baht.
Addressing concerns about potential misuse of parliamentary positions, Mr. Siroj clarified that the repeal of the compensation increase was unrelated to such allegations. The decision was part of a policy initiated by the Speaker in March 2026, well before any allegations surfaced. To prevent misuse, stringent background checks have been mandated for appointments to political working groups within the legislative body, ensuring individuals with questionable records do not assume influential roles.