More measures aimed at relieving the impact of rising energy prices are expected to be announced by state agencies this week as the 1.5-trillion-baht fund for COVID-19 relief schemes is running low.
The measures, details of which were not available, are due to be rolled out as soon as possible at the request of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said yesterday.
Advertisement
Gen Chan-o-cha has ordered Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Supattanapong Punmeechaow and Finance Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith to host a press conference at Government House on the matter this week, Mr Wangboonkongchana said, adding the ministries have discussed the measures.
Gen Chan-o-cha wants these agencies to offer maximum assistance to those badly affected by high energy prices by drawing on the limited state budget, he noted.
A source at Government House said the cabinet claimed there is only 70 billion baht left from the 1.5 trillion baht borrowed to battle COVID-19, including related economic stimulus schemes. Gen Chan-o-cha said most of the money was spent on healthcare schemes, the source said.
Advertisement
