Sophon declared that MPs should buy their own meals after a complaint from the People’s Party that during late-night sessions, MPs had no food. He emphasized that the parliament provides no food welfare to avoid criticism of MPs eating free meals. He also prepared to prohibit displaying number signs to counter each other in the chamber because it violates procedural rules.
On 8 Sep 2026 GMT+7 at the parliament, Sophon Sarum, Speaker of the House of Representatives, spoke about delays in the second reading of the 2027 budget bill. He said the original debate was set for three days and he discussed with the two deputy speakers about holding late sessions. However, if it runs excessively late, on 9 Sep he might join the session late. He confirmed that the session will definitely end late tonight, and the two deputy speakers are prepared to extend the time, possibly past midnight. Whether it delays to 10 Sep remains to be seen. He said he can speed up the process in two ways: first, MPs must debate the agenda items rather than general principle debates, which he has warned about frequently; second, both party whips must discuss and cooperate. He acknowledged that some ministries affect people’s livelihoods, so MPs want to speak more to reflect public issues, such as those from the Ministries of Agriculture, Interior, and Health. Therefore, he requested that only representatives submitting amendments speak. They aim to finish within three days.
When asked about MP Phandil Nuamjerm of Bangkok from the People’s Party demanding food welfare for MPs during late meetings, Sophon said the issue circles back to accusations that MPs eat free meals. If food welfare is provided, they will be accused of coming to eat free food. He appealed to the public to understand the proper role of politicians—whether to be volunteers or politicians. The solution is for MPs to buy their own food since there is no welfare provided.
Regarding the issue of number signs being displayed back and forth between the Bhumjaithai and People’s parties, Sophon said he was initially confused about what the numbers meant or symbolized but later understood. He therefore intends to ban such signs from being brought up again because it violates the meeting rules. Any object displayed must first be approved by the Speaker. He added that he did not want to impose strict orders unnecessarily but emphasized that everyone must cooperate and help maintain order for the sake of the country.