'Change of heart' welcomed

"We have to wonder why they insisted earlier that they wouldn't and now say they will. Obviously everything the government said was false," said Abhisit, adding that his party was ready nonetheless and he should like to see the parliamentary session extended two weeks to accommodate the new agenda.

The Senate will have a no-confidence debate too, though without a vote and with Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on hand to answer questions.

Acting Senate Speaker Nikhom Vairatpanich welcomes the move, saying it is a good gesture and will certainly defuse political tension. He notes that 61 senators on Friday called for such a debate. He hopes the PAD too will soften its stance.