But in a bid to prevent future allegations against NLA members about the issue, Pornpetch said he would tighten procedures to ensure that members did not leave work without a valid reason.

The issue surfaced following complaints against seven NLA members, including the Prime Minister’s brother – the former Defence permanent secretary general Preecha Chan-o-cha, who were criticised for missing too many NLA meetings, and affecting deliberation on laws. The NLA will look into requests for leave submitted by the seven members, NLA Vice President Peerasak Projit said.

Peerasak said he had been assigned to look into allegations against the seven, so he would wrap the initial probe by Friday. If they have taken more leave than the maximum allowed, their NLA membership would be nullified immediately. The seven members’ work ethic would also be reviewed, Peerasak said.