Chinnaworn backs plush club for MPs

The operation of the controversial new Parliamentary Club will be financed by annual membership fees paid by lawmakers, not taxpayer’s money, says Chinnaworn Bunyakiat, deputy chairman of the committee on House of Representatives’ affairs.

Earlier this week, Padipat Santipada, Move Forward MP for Phitsanulok, criticised the government’s plan to open a luxury club in the new parliament building, complete with a spa and a ballroom, as “unacceptable”.

Mr Padipat said the club, with its extravagant features, does not belong in parliament as it is a place of work, not entertainment. He said money for the club could have been used instead to fund offices or breastfeeding rooms for officials. He has asked for a review of the services offered at the facility.

Mr Chinnaworn on Thursday pledged to review the services offered at the club but defended its function. He said…