In the past, acceptance of lavish gifts by government officials was merely considered to be bad form and did not carry a legal penalty. The draft law seeks to close the loophole.

Minister to the Prime Minister's Office Khunying Thipawadee Meksawan said the drafters were studying examples from a few countries with such a law.

A good governance and ethics council is also likely to be created under the new law, if passed. It is likely to be composed of 20 socially respected people, with a serving term of six years which will outlast any administration's four-year term. The committee will probably be appointed by the prime minister.

Thipawadee said the council would play an instrumental role in assessing possible bribery and abuse of power by government officials. It would also play a role as a promoter of good governance, offer guidance and assess the level of governance of all ministries.

The minister said that it was important to ensure the impartiality and independence of the new council. A new hotline for the public to report bribery would also be set up, probably with the number 1111.

"The killer punch to prevent corruption is the good governance and ethics council and a clear legal punishment," she said.

Piyanart Srivalo

The Nation