"People's Party" Urges Cabinet to Return Factory Act Fearing Rejection Will Leave Communities Vulnerable to Pollution

Today, May 7, 2026, at Parliament, People’s Party MPs led by Ms. Pakamon Noonanan, Mr. Phunsak Janjampee, and Mr. Chutiphong Phiphopphinyo held a press conference to track the progress of the Factory Act amendment. The group expressed concern over why the Cabinet has not yet returned the bill for its second and third readings despite it having already passed the extraordinary committee stage.

Mr. Phunsak stated that this new legislation is vital for closing loopholes in the current law by requiring "special category" factories to apply for annual operating permits and provide financial guarantees to cover potential pollution or environmental impacts, which would enhance the long-term quality of life for the public. Meanwhile, Mr. Chutiphong emphasized that if the delay continues, the bill risks being dropped entirely. He noted that the current problems stem from a 2019 amendment that abolished permit expiration dates, resulting in many factories operating without regular oversight or public participation, which has led to community distress. Consequently, the group called upon Mr. Akanat Promphan, the former Minister of Industry who previously helped push this draft, and Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, the new Minister of Industry, to urgently bring the bill back for consideration to address pollution issues and ensure public involvement, while questioning whether the current delay is due to concerns over affecting certain interests.

Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong