Following a broad discussion, the lower House has agreed to investigate the creation of an “integrated entertainment complex”, which would feature the country's initial legal casinos.
Two hundred fifty-three MPs supported the study, while two abstained and two MPs did not vote. Opposition MPs reportedly left the chamber.
Members of the Move Forward party expressed their support for an integrated entertainment complex to generate state revenue for public welfare. However, they suggested conducting further research on the potential long-term effects, particularly regarding gambling addiction, citing a local saying that highlights its damaging nature.
Move Forward MP Yodchai Peungporn proposed that the House committee conduct a more thorough study, which includes regulations on complex entry and the potential for the project to spur illegal gambling venues serving individuals without access to the casinos within the complex.
Bhumjaithai MP Natchanon Srikorkua stated during the debate that the project's sole focus on gambling as a revenue source would be detrimental to society.
United Thai Nation MP Witthaya Kaewparadai recommended that half of the project's revenues be allocated to bettering the lives of elderly individuals in the country, such as through a 5,000 baht monthly state benefit.
Following the debate, Move Forward MP Chutiphong Pipoppinyo requested a head count in the chamber to confirm the presence of the necessary members. Government MPs interpreted this as a maneuver to obstruct the study.
Paradorn Prissananantakul, of the Bhumjaithai party, accused opposition MPs of trying to disrupt the House meeting and warned that government MPs could use a similar tactic during the opposition's censure debate next month.
Julapun Amornvivat, the chair of the House committee that conducted the study, informed MPs that a more comprehensive study would be necessary if the government wishes to proceed with the project.
