BANGKOK, 29 August 2011 (NNT) – The Pheu Thai Party has dismissed the rumour that Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul was to request the British authorities to grant a visa for ex-Prime Minister Police Lieutenant Colonel Thaksin Shinawatra.

Pheu Thai Party Spokesperson Prompong Nopparit criticised the Democrat Party, particularly Acting Democrat Party Spokesperson Chavanond Intarakomalyasut, for making a groundless allegation against the foreign minister.

Mr Prompong stated that Mr Chavanond gave unconstructive news to the press and was trying to play politics in an effort to discredit the government. He lambasted the Democrat spokesperson for failing to consider the foreign relations and national interest.

The Pheu Thai spokesperson confirmed with the press that he had already asked the foreign minister about the matter and had been confirmed that such a thing did not take place, and the minister knew nothing about it.

Mr Prompong then asked the Democrat Party to probe the press briefing given by Mr Chavanond, also former secretary to the previous foreign minister. He said a press conference should be held for providing facts, not for personal satisfaction.

Reporter: Santibhap Ussavasodhi – NNT