Opposition MP Questions Ministry of Labour’s Spending Practices

During a parliamentary session on September 9, 2026, Thanaporn Wijan, a list MP from the People's Party, challenged the Ministry of Labour’s proposed budget. She formally proposed a 5% reduction, arguing that the ministry’s spending on training and seminars—totaling approximately 217 million baht—lacks coordination and contains redundant allocations across departments.

Thanaporn highlighted specific concerns regarding the ministry's operational costs, including a 9,000-baht per person clothing allowance for overseas meetings, which she questioned as unnecessary. Furthermore, she pointed to significant disparities in meal allowances: high-ranking officials and employers are allocated 900–1,000 baht per meal, while mid-level staff receive 500–800 baht. In contrast, general workers and the public are allocated only 80–300 baht per day, and agricultural workers receive only light refreshments.

For residents and expatriates, this debate underscores ongoing scrutiny regarding the efficiency of public funds in Thailand. While these discussions are part of the standard legislative budget review process, they highlight the administrative challenges within government agencies. It remains to be confirmed whether the proposed 5% budget cut will be adopted by the parliament or if the ministry will provide a formal justification for the questioned expenses. As of now, the matter remains under legislative deliberation.