Varawut backs pension boost in principle

Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa on Monday said he supported the idea of increasing the monthly allowance for the elderly to 3,000 or 5,000 baht, but that any rise must be financially sustainable for the country.

His remarks came in response to a bill submitted by civic groups on Dec 21, seeking a rise in the monthly living allowance for the elderly from the current 600 baht to 3,000 baht.

The bill was signed by 43,826 people and received by Deputy House Speaker Padipat Santipada, who promised to forward it to the House of Representatives for deliberation as soon as possible.

Nimit Tienudom, an activist representing the groups, said they had submitted similar drafts…