The Senate passes first reading of referendum bill

After a two-hour debate, the Senate has on Friday passed its first reading of the referendum bill by a majority vote of 119 to five. Two abstained.

A 29-member panel has been appointed to scrutinise draft provisions for the final two readings.

The bill is on a fast track for passage as the government was pinning its hopes that the referendum outcome might help to overcome the political deadlock.

People's Alliance for Democracy leader Somsak Kosaisuk this morning cast doubt whether the referendum vote could take place.

The major obstacle is how the government could phrase the referendum question without violating the Constitution, he said.

The question posed to voters must not prejudice nor offend the PAD's right to peaceful assembly nor touch on any political system which is not sanctioned by the charter, he said.

He hinted that it might be impossible to come up with an acceptable wording which would allow voters to freely choose between the government and the PAD.

He said the PAD would not get involved in the referendum process because its unwavering demand is for the government to step down.

He also stated that he is uncertain whether a snap election would be the answer. If corrupt politicians continue to win relections and dominate the House, there won't be any improvement and street protests might continue on, he said.

Earlier PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul suggested for the breakup of the coalition alliance and called for the Democrats to have a shot at forming a new coalition.