Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has reassured the public that his government will not ban the sale of alcohol during the New Year holidays.
"It can be sold as usual," the prime minister said yesterday in response to a question about a recent proposal by the Public Health Ministry's Alcohol Control Committee Office to ban alcohol sales over the New Year holiday and Songkran festival. The office hoped a ban would cut the number of road traffic deaths and accidents.
Gen Prayut said, however, that drinkers must take it upon themselves not to drive if they believe it might be unsafe, or they could face legal action.
Government deputy spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd suggested such a ban would be bad for trade and for the country. "Any such measure would be impractical," he said.
The proposed ban was sent to the Public Health Ministry, where the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee, chaired by Public Health Minister Rajata Rajatanavin, is due to discuss it on Dec 19.
Under the proposal, sales of alcohol would be prohibited on Dec 31 and Jan 1 and during the Songkran festival between April 13 and 15.
The Alcohol Control Committee Office said about 300 traffic deaths are recorded each New Year and Songkran, with most caused by drink-driving.
The proposed ban has drawn strong opposition from tour operators and alcohol retailers.