Chaos won't hit scrutiny of loan bill: minister
TRANSPORT MINISTER Chadchart Sittipunt said the Senate's consideration of the Bt2-trillion infrastructure-loan bill, scheduled for MondayNovember 18, would not be affected by the anti-amnesty protests, as the draft is unrelated to that controversial issue
Most people support the loan bill, though many are concerned about transparency and the risk of corruption, he said, adding that this made it necessary for the Transport Ministry implement measures to address these concerns.
The Bt2-trillion infrastructure loan bill will boost foreign investors’ confidence in Thailand, Chadchart said.
If things proceed as planned, the first drawdown of investment expenditures under the infrastructure loan scheme would be about Bt100 billion, made in the first year.
This would result in a contribution to Thailand’s gross domestic product of at least 1 per cent, not to mention other indirect benefits from investors seeking opportunities in Thailand, he said.
However, the Senate has two pending issues of concern: first, the issue of whether the country’s reserves will be tapped – something the minister said the Finance Ministry would address; and second, additional project details to be attached to the loan bill, which the Transport Ministry will provide. Chadchart said he had done his best to push the bill and had been trying to clear up doubts and concerns on all sides for more than six months.
Should the Bt2-trillion infrastructure-loan bill fail to gain the Senate’s approval, the Transport Ministry will consult the Finance Ministry to seek sources of funds for the various infrastructure projects that are essential to the country and future economic prosperity.
