Three options to end political deadlock : Senate speaker

His comment came after a mediating meeting on MOnday at the Parliament which resulted in the nomination of Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee, who is also the ruling People Power Party secretary general, as the government negotiator.

The meeting concluded that both the government and the anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) must soften their stance and reach at some form of compromise in order to end the political deadlock.

The PAD was not involved in the today talk yet but attempt is being made to get them on the table.

The meeting which involved Prasopsuk and others including opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and House speaker Chai Chidchob also led to the formation of an eight-person working committee.

Prasopsuk also met Army commanderinchief General Anupong Paochinda after the meeting to inform him of the progress. Anupong then reiterate to the senate speaker that the military will not use force to quell the PAD protesters and that there will be no coup d' etat. The army chief then told Prasopsuk that he believes that the current intiative by the parliament is the best method to solve the problem.

 If Samak resigns, then a government acceptable to all sides could be established, said Prasopsuk, elaborating on the first option. The second option, involving the dissolution of the house, will automatically lead to a snap election. With option three, the PAD should end its protracted protest and its leaders submit itself to judicial review.

 Surapong was also asked to personally talk to the prime minister in order to reduce tension and confrontation. The meeting concluded that both sides have become too "aggressive" and both sides must compromise.

 The meeting was followed by a meeting amongst leaders of all major parties. Mun Patanothai, deputy premier and minister of Communication Technology and leader of Puea Pandin Party said they will meet again after Surapong have met with Samak.

 Pracharaj Party leader Snoh Thienthong said the meeting took place under a good environment by all parties and expect to see a breakthrough soon.

 However, Suwit Khunkitti, another senior politician, said the PM should consider resigning or dissolve the house to show his spirit especially if Samak cannot end the current crisis. Suwit cited Japan and Canada as examples.

 Surapong meanwhile said he's not worried about the task given to him and played down the suggestion of dissolution of the house as just another suggestion. He added that the ruling coalition was still solidly together.