Over past days competition for the post has heated up. Candidates who appear popular yet controversial include legal expert Meechai Ruchuphan and veteran columnist Prasong Soonsiri.

Policy review

Tomorrow sees Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont consider state policies for political reform, national administration, economics, social reconciliation and security.

Some schemes submitted by the government policy-drafting committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister Kosit Panpiemras were rejected last Tuesday and sent back for revision.

Kosit has worked with PM's Office Minister Thirapat Serirangsan to fine-tune legislation.

Friday sees Surayud send approved policy to the NLA.

New probe panel

The Assets Examination Committee (AEC) will name members of a sub-committee to investigate alleged corruption associated with the construction of Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Allegations before the AEC relate to alleged irregularities in the purchase of CTX baggage scanners, electric wiring and a rail-link project.

Committee chairman Nam Yimyaem said last week the appointment of a sub-committee "means AEC work can now proceed at full steam".

The AEC has been charged with exposing evidence of corruption during the overthrown Thaksin administration.