On 14 Sept, Yongyuth Wichaidit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, told reporters that the previous government’s policy to protect the monarchy was not considered a policy, as it was ‘above’ policy, and to protect the institution was the soul and spirit inherent in the blood of all Thai people.

Policies are about solving problems, and are finished within certain timeframes or continued if the government wants it, he said.

‘The government has the idea to revive village scouts in concrete form for the sake of the reconciliation of Thais to encourage them to love the country and religion, and to be an important force in the future.  No budget will be allocated for this, but [the government] will promote the idea of sacrificing for the country.  And the main task is to fight the drugs problem,’ he said.