Construction of the Bt12-billion complex started in 2013 at Bangkok’s Dusit district on the banks of the Chao Phraya |River is about 18 per cent |complete but is well behind schedule. Completion of |construction has been |deferred to December 15 |this year.

Pornpetch said there was no corruption in the construction but there were delays in the hand over of land.

“The main issue is demolition of old buildings and |moving soil out of the site. Parliament does not have authority to dismantle |these buildings, as we need approval from the Treasury Department,” he said.

He questioned how authorities responsible for signing the contract for construction had endorsed the contract when old existing buildings on the site had not been demolished or relocated.

He expressed concern that |if the construction were not completed as indicated in |the contract, the foundation |of the building would become rusty and become a “ruin”. |”This could lead to court cases to find who is responsible for the damage,” he said. Pornpetch was doubtful if the builder would be able to |complete the construction within December when many buildings have to be demolished.