Extension of social security benefits

An informed source said the Cabinet would look into the ministry's request on Tuesday.

If the Cabinet agrees with the Labour Ministry's idea, up to 5.88 million people more will be entitled to free medical treatment, death benefits and disability benefits under the social security scheme through their status as spouses or children of members.

To become members of the social-security scheme, working people must submit monthly contributions to the Social Security Fund (SSF) at an amount required by laws.

The Labour Ministry said the extension of social security benefits to the members' spouses and children was in line with the government policies toward people's quality of life.

The ministry estimates the extension will cost Bt14.4 billion a year.