‘ Khon La Khrueng ’ subsidies sped up

>>The fourth phase of the government’s “Khon La Khrueng” copayment subsidy scheme will be launched in the middle of next month to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 and ease the cost of living, government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said yesterday.

Prime Minister Prayut Chano-cha had instructed the Finance Ministry to expedite the launch of the fourth phase, previously planned for March or April, he said. Registration will begin on Feb 14 and spending by registrants can begin on Feb 21, he said.

“The fourth phase will cover users of the Pao Tang application, new registrants, state welfare cardholders and those in need of special assistance. It is aimed to ease the people’s plight while stimulating domestic consumption and economic growth,” the spokesman said. The fourth phase was approved by the cabinet on Dec 21 last year, as the third phase expired on Dec 31. The government subsidising 50% of food, drink and general goods purchases for participants, up to 150 baht per person per day.