Minister of Interior pushing for simpler regulations to promote commerce
PUBLISHED: 13 Feb 2025 at 18: 08
Officials are being asked to consider the benefits and drawbacks of lifting the alcohol sales ban from 2 to 5pm regular and on Buddhist sacred days, according to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin.
Following a suggestion made by a system of tourism-related firms on Tuesday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called for officials to take the matter into account.
The prime minister stressed, nevertheless, that even if the request is approved and implemented, it won’t necessarily mean that anyone would be able to buy beer and drink easily.
She said the proposal is primarily intended to enhance visitors ‘ convenience and promote tourism, but young people’s access to alcohol remained a problem.
Mr. Somsak stated on Thursday that the liquor control commission under his government would take into account both the thoughts of those who support and disagree with the plan as soon as possible.
Carrying out a review won’t necessarily mean the restrictions may be revised, he said, even though the want to support tourism will be taken into account as a crucial factor.
He noted that a recent study found that it could cause more harm than good for a plan to permit the sale of alcohol on trains at specific days was turned down.
” I will consider views from all sides as I have no fixed determination]to lift or not lift the ban ]”, said Mr Somsak.
If the majority of people don’t agree with the proposed change, we might not deal even if the financial benefits appear appealing.
Hotels and other alcohol-selling establishments pleaded with the government to lift the 2-5pm sale ban, claiming that it was an obsolete measure that was passed in 1972 to stop civil servants from drinking at work.
A bill to amend the laws governing alcohol consumption will now have the House of Representatives ‘ second and third analyses scheduled for this week. A House council has previously examined and approved the proposed amendment.