Deputy Speaker Mallika explained that cutting off MP Patrapong's microphone was due to exceeding the allotted debate time, not related to any references to Senators. She stated there was no conflict, and as the chairperson, she must ensure the meeting proceeds orderly and smoothly. The tags are: [Deputy Speaker, parliamentary procedure, microphone cut, debate time, House of Representatives]
On 3 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Mallika Jirapantwanich, First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, explained the microphone cut of MP Patrapong Lilaphat from Chiang Mai representing the People’s Party during debate on the draft Clean Air Management Act (Clean Air Act). She clarified that the incident, which involved coarse language, should be understood correctly and not seen as a conflict. The Clean Air Act is a law benefiting the public, highly prioritized by the House. Multiple MPs from both government and opposition signed up to debate, agreeing to finish by 2 Sep 2026 GMT+7, with a 5-minute limit per speaker to avoid delays. Since amendments returned from the Senate were mostly disagreed with by MPs, a joint committee was formed with 10 MPs and 10 Senators. During debates, some MPs referred to Senators within the 5-minute limit and were allowed, but exceeding this time led to mic cutoffs for everyone. While MPs have debate privileges, the chair must control the meeting, enforce polite language, and keep time to maintain order. The tags are: [Clean Air Act, parliamentary debate, time limit, microphone cutoff, joint committee, House of Representatives]
Ms. Mallika added that the issue was about discipline in keeping to debate time, not about content. She emphasized there was no conflict between MPs and the Speaker or any political party. The chair’s duty is to manage the meeting smoothly and complete it within the timeframe set by both party whips. Meeting rules clearly require members not to use impolite language; if violated, the chair can order retraction to maintain order. Since sessions are broadcast live to the public, maintaining decorum sets a good example for youth and citizens. The tags are: [meeting discipline, debate time, parliamentary rules, language decorum, live broadcast]
Regarding whether the mic cutoff measure will apply to other debates, Ms. Mallika said time limits are always set. MPs practice beforehand to stay within their allotted time, such as a 2-minute discussion segment. She confirmed that referencing Senators is allowed, but keeping within the time limit is essential. The tags are: [time management, parliamentary debate, microphone control, Speaker’s role]
When asked if MPs using coarse language would raise concerns with their parties, Ms. Mallika said last night she required the MP to retract the words. She urged members to use polite language since the microphone picks up sound. Allowing rude speech without correction would reflect poorly on the chair’s control duties. The tags are: [parliamentary discipline, coarse language, party responsibility, Speaker’s enforcement]