Talk-shows that 'fail to promote unity' face the axe

"When I oversee NBT, I will see if its programmes are in line with the Public Relations Department's objectives. For example, programmes must promote peace and unity in society. I understand there were some mistakes that made programme changes necessary," Satit said.

He said NBT's programme changes must serve two main objectives: reporting about government work to the taxpayers and opening more space in the state media for public use.

He did not identify any show to be targeted in the imminent changes. But he was probably referring to shows like "Truth Today", hosted by politicians who are staunch supporters of ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra. The co-hosts, politicians linked to the previous government, often attacked political enemies and government critics.

Satit has been assigned by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to oversee state media, including the Public Relations Department, which runs NBT - National Broadcasting Services of Thailand.

He said he felt inclined to change the channel's name back to Channel 11, after it was renamed NBT by the pro-Thaksin government of Samak Sundaravej. But the name change could wait.

"That is not an urgent issue. What is more urgent is content from the Public Relations Department," he said. "The first thing I will do is to talk with the PRD about what to do."

Satit said there would be a new programme on NBT that allows the prime minister to talk to the public on weekends.

The programme would allow the PM to report to the public on the progress of government work and future plans. "It would not be a programme to make political counterattacks," he said. The opposition would also get a time-slot for a similar programme if they wanted.