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Published on March 8, 2008

For the first time in local parliamentary politics, we can expect to see opposition members respond to the government's policies in a more constructive manner, rather than just simply relying on rhetoric.

Korn Chatikavanij, the shadow finance minister, proposed the government could better prop up the economy by increasing the mid-year fiscal budget by Bt42 billion, instead of granting tax breaks of the equivalent amount.

On Tuesday, Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee announced a comprehensive package of tax exemptions for listed companies, individuals, the property sector and small- and medium-sized enterprises worth a combined Bt42 billion, in hope of stimulating the economy.

According to Dr Olarn Chaipravat, an advisor to the Fiscal Policy Research Institute, only Bt30

billion of the total amount would likely be used

this year, as the whole package takes 12 months or an entire tax year to be fully

effective.

The opposition argued the effects of economic stimulus would be felt more quickly via an expanded fiscal budget, whereas tax measures might not result in increased spending or investment if companies and individuals were still not confident in the country's political and economic outlook.

Another example of constructive opposition was displayed by Abhisit Vejjajiva, the Democrat leader, who offered to work with the government to help resolve prolonged unrest in Southern Thailand.

Given the opposition party's stronghold in the South, where it won

the most seats in the last general election, Abhisit's action is worth considering.

Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung expressed interest in the "shadow" prime minister's offer, but both have yet to meet in person to discuss ideas for South resolution.

 Tentatively, the opposition thought the government should name a high-ranking official to take direct responsibility in tackling issues of the unrest, which could date back a century.

Secondly, the government should set up a special social and economic development zone covering all five troubled South provinces so it could manage the areas more effectively.

In performing its task more creatively, the opposition has also appointed several qualified persons to take charge of all ministries and has a schedule to meet every Thursday prior to the start of

the parliamentary session.

On one hand, opposition members will gain from being close to national issues and helping reassure the public that the government's key policies are all competently scrutinised prior to execution.

The opposition could also take this opportunity to prepare themselves in case there is a political accident resulting in role reversal in Parliament.

On the other hand, the government will gain from having more insight into critical national issues and will have to exercise more caution when coming up with new policies.

After all, a competent shadow cabinet bodes well for voters as well as the government in a parliamentary democratic system.

Nophakhun Limsamarnphun

nop1122@yahoo.com

The Nation