PM backs hold on handout

3rd-phase delay tied to US trade tariffs

- WICHIT CHANTANUSONSIRI

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has defended the government's decision to postpone the third phase of the 10,000-baht handout programme, saying uncontrollable circumstances made it impossible to implement it.

The premier yesterday dismissed criticism that the Pheu-Thai-led government had failed to fulfil its election pledge of implementing the scheme.

She said that money was already given to welfare cardholders, people with disabilities, and those aged 60 and over under the first two phases of the scheme, but the third phase has to be postponed due to unexpected events, particularly the US's reciprocal tariffs, which have affected numerous countries.

"Circumstances that have occurred are unforeseen and beyond our control," the prime minister said, referring to the US's trade tariff policy.