BANGKOK – The new Thai government has made the banning of Internet sites that are disrespectful to the King one of its top priorities.

          The government has taken interim action to block 2,300 websites deemed offensive to the monarchy, said Information, Communications and Technology minister Ranongruk Suwanchawee. Court approval is currently required to block websites, but Suwanchawee said that the ministry will quickly seek to amend laws that increase the government enforcement powers and added that she will also seek court approval to shut down completely a further 400 websites.

          The government of Abhisit Vejjajiva was only sworn in a few days ago, but Suwanchawee said that enforcement of the country's strict 'lese majeste' laws is one of its top priorities.

          The ICT ministry expects to spend Baht45 million ($1.3 million) buying equipment to set up a "war room" targeting inappropriate websites in much the same way as China's so-called 'Great Firewall.' Before the latest measures, the ministry was believed to be blocking 1,200 sites.

          Insulting the monarchy is a serious crime in Thailand and can carry a jail sentence of up to 15 years.

          The Vejjajiva regime took office after massive political turmoil that closed Bangkok's two airports and until it calls a general election depends heavily on royal support.

King Bhumibol is 81.

© Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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