Censure debate against Thai PM, Interior Minister begins

BANGKOK, November 26 (TNA) - Thailand's no-confidence debate in a House session against Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Interior Minister Charupong Ruangsuwan kicked off on Tuesday morning. The censure debate has been set from November 26-27, followed by the vote on November 28, as the closure of the current parliamentary session was earlier announced on November 29, with the royal approval of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Speaking to reporters before the censure debate, the prime minister, who faces corruption charges by the opposition camp and anti-government protesters, urged the demonstrators not to intrude into government offices. The prime minister on Monday night announced to extend the enforcement of the Internal Security Act (ISA) across Bangkok, all areas in Nonthaburi Province, Bang Phli District of Samut Prakan Province and Lat Lum Kaeo District of Pathum Thani Province to protect state property and to contain ongoing anti-government protests. Yingluck said anti-government protesters should respect the rule of law and the domestic situation would return to normal if talks could be held. The prime minister insisted that the government will not use force against the protesters, urging them to hold demonstrations peacefully. By early Tuesday, protesters were still occupying the Ministry of Finance, where the Bureau of the Budget is also located, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Public Relations Department. (TNA)