The committee was assigned to vet the bill before it goes for a second reading by the NLA.

Spokesman Tuang Antachai said the committee agreed the bill should ban manufacturers from offering discounts, freebies, samples and the right to join a lucky draw.

"We have also added another clause that alcohol must not be sold as a bundle of various products," Tuang said.

He said the committee approved a clause in the bill banning alcohol being drunk in temples, hospitals, medical-service facilities and pharmacies - except in places designated as "personal areas".

The clause will prohibit alcohol being drunk in government and educational compounds too, with limited exceptions such as for parties or cocktail-making classes.

However, Tuang said the committee was divided about a clause that comprehensively bans alcohol advertising, including brand displays.

"We have established a panel to look into this issue and explore some alternatives," he said.

In a related development, the Excise Department was preparing a plan to raise the cigarette-tax ceiling from 80 per cent to 99 per cent. Cigarettes are currently subject to 79-per-cent rate of tax.

"Within the next one or two weeks, we should be able to conclude the plan in detail.

"After that, we will forward it to the Cabinet," Deputy Finance Minister Sommai Phasee said.

The plan drew complaints from cigarette sellers, who insisted that raising the tax would boost bootleg products.