Thailand announces benefit package for the poor
Updated
The Thai government has announced a $US1.4 billion benefit package for the poor to help counteract the rising cost of living.
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej says the anti-poverty scheme will provide tax cuts and free services for six months to Thailand's worst-off.
The measures include cuts in taxes on fuel, delayed increases in the price of cooking gas, as well as free tap water, electricity, and public transport.
His says the measures will begin to take effect later this month and is expected to benefit 9.8 million households, saving them 1,000 baht (about $US30) each month.
Inflation in Thailand hit a 10-year high of 8.9 percent in June, driven by soaring food and fuel costs.
Central bank officials have warned it could reach double digits this month.
The finance minister, Surapong Suebwonglee, warned Monday that the country may not meet its growth target of 6.0 per cent if global oil prices keep rising.
