The statement was due to be presented to the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) this Friday, but Surayud declined to set an exact date.

"I have to follow the schedule set by the NLA," he said.

The policies cover politics and administration, the economy, national reconciliation, national security, and foreign relations.

The government will focus especially on public participation in writing the permanent constitution. It will introduce new measures and strengthen current ones to combat corruption. It will emphasise sufficiency economy and ethics. It will encourage mutual assistance through extended families

Surayud also met with about 200 community leaders from all over the country at Government House. During the hour-long meeting, he heard a range of suggestions about what should be done to solve problems facing their communities.

Piyanart Srivalo

The Nation