PM's jobs for deputies, ministers

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva yesterday allocated responsibilities for his three deputies and two PM's Office ministers.

He said Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban would take care of security affairs, Korbsak Sabhavasu would deal with economic matters, and Sanan Kachornprasart was to retain responsibilities he held in the previous government.

As for the two PM's Office ministers, Satit Wongnongtaey would oversee state media and legal matters, and Virachai Virameteekul would care for economic and managerial matters, according to the prime minister. - The Nation.

Acting govt spokesman named

Noted academic Associate Professor Panitan Wattanayagorn will be appointed as deputy PM's secretary-general and acting spokesman for the government, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said yesterday.

The PM added a new government spokesman would later be appointed to take over the spokesman's role from Panitan.

Panitan said yesterday he would help the government with foreign and security affairs.

"We will be looking to restore confidence and regain trust from the international community. The upcoming Asean Summit will demonstrate Thailand is back on track," Panitan said.

Panitan, a lecturer at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Political Science, is one of Thailand's leading security experts. His comments are often sought on political, foreign and security affairs.

 The academic said he will be taking leave of absence from the university under a "special decree" that permits him to return to his old job. He will continue to advise students on thesis and dissertations.