Back inquiry panels, PM urges

Back inquiry panels, PM urges

The new government should keep supporting independent committees investigating political conflicts, says outgoing Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.

In a 10-minute televised speech broadcast on state-owned channels last night, Mr Abhisit said goodbye to the country and offered the incoming government some advice.

Mr Abhisit's taped speech, which touched upon the country's economic, financial, social and security situation, aired at 8.30pm.

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The prime minister said his government had appointed panels to investigate incidents related to past political conflicts, and had allowed those panels to work independently.

Mr Abhisit was referring to probes into the April-May clashes last year between security forces and red shirt protesters.

His administration also respected the judicial process which is expected to settle the conflicts, Mr Abhisit said.

"I hope the new government will adopt the same approach. It would lead to truth and justice."

The country can pass smoothly from his administration to the new government provided conflicts are addressed through the parliamentary process.

Mr Abhisit assured the public that the government should be well placed to solve any economic problems and address people's difficulties.

The country was in a good position financially, he said.

Over the past two years, the value of the country's international reserves has increased from US$110 billion to US$180 billion, he said.

The country's international reserves are ranked No.13 globally.

During the past three quarters, tax revenue was 200 billion baht higher than the initial target.

The new government will enjoy more flexibility in its budgeting for the next fiscal year, he said.

Mr Abhisit ended by thanking the public and officials that have supported his coalition government over the past two years.