Bangkok: The Pheu Thai Party has voiced its opposition to the proposal of holding a referendum on the Entertainment Complex Act draft. The party argues that if the draft reaches the committee level, it will inevitably include opinions from all relevant parties.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Payu Nuengjamnong, deputy spokesman of the Pheu Thai Party, commented on the referendum proposal concerning the draft bill related to entertainment complexes. He stated that even though the referendum law, as amended by the House of Representatives, is not yet finalized, the draft entertainment complex bill remains the top priority for the House. Mr. Payu emphasized that once the parliamentary session opens on July 3, and if the House approves the first reading, the bill must follow due legislative process.

Mr. Payu highlighted that opinions on the matter have already been expressed through various channels. The House has previously studied the issue thoroughly, allowing multiple opportunities for public input. He mentioned that if the draft passes the first reading, the committee level will certainly facilitate further discourse. Mr. Payu also noted that the government should not handle this policy via a referendum, pointing out that the concept of entertainment complexes, such as casinos and state-controlled gambling, is not unprecedented in the country. Existing facilities like horse racing tracks and boxing stadiums already operate under similar frameworks.