OPINION

Short-sighted

Re: "Stimulus a band-aid for gaping wounds", (BP, Nov 28).

I agree with Wichit Chantanusornsiri's analysis as it highlights the need for a long-term solution to economic and other problems.

Sadly, there seems to be a dearth of long-term thinkers in this government, so we continue getting these short-term politically expedient solutions such as lifting the ban on agro-chemicals because the ban is unpopular with farmers.

I feel sorry for future generations who, I have no doubt, will some day curse this government for doing everything to hang on to power instead considering the long-term health of the country and its people.

Re: "Insurance nightmare", (Postbag, Nov 24).

In his letter on the requirement for insurance to underpin a retirement visa, Mango Bob does not mention Thailand's social security not being accepted or the latest police order issued by the Immigration Bureau.

How can private insurance possibly be better than the government-backed social security scheme?

It is mandatory for foreigners legally employed here to pay into this scheme and they can continue paying for coverage once they retire.

As Mr Bob states, something must be done to address these immoral changes before it is too late.

Re: "Ban needs a backbone", (Editorial, Nov 28).

The government needs to start from the other end.

A test and a ban on all foods containing dangerous amounts of chemicals are needed.

If farmers find they can't sell their products, they will be forced to stop using chemicals if they want to survive.

Getting farmers to see the high level of toxic substances likely to be found in their blood will also help with this push.

Use the carrot, not the stick.

Re: "Abolish conscription", (PostBag, Nov 27).

Mr Parker makes some convincing arguments for bringing military conscription to an end.

Western nations dispensed with this many years ago, as it was thought better to train those willing to fight rather than waste time and money forcing those who don't want to fight.

This is because such unwilling soldiers usually end up cowering in a hole in battle instead of fighting the enemy.

Hence, it is often said that one volunteer is worth 10 conscripts, and as a retired British army officer, I can say that this is indeed the case.

While it is always great to read the opinions of other people, I seriously ask if those who subscribe to abolishing conscription have ever met a volunteer in Thailand?

A totally professional army, equipped with high-tech weaponry, and high-tech this or that will cost a fortune, beyond the military's wildest dreams.

Maintain conscription until it is not practical any more, or open the military to non-Thais or those who oppose conscription, so they can volunteer themselves.