Population Policy

The Fourth National Economic and Social Development Plan
 (1977-1981). Part II, Chapter 1, p.50-51.

Date:     1977-1981

Source:     Office of the Prime Minister, National Economic and Social Development Board, Bangkok, Thailand

Subject:     employment policy

To accelerate economic recovery, various policies and measures relating to labour and employment have to be implemented. The main policies and measures in this field include the following:

3.1  Peaceful harmonious labour-management relations will be promoted through strict enforcement of relevant laws in the settlement of industrial disputes. The Government will persuade workers to abide by the law and to refrain from taking any drastic action which might be harmful to public lives and property in the case of strikes.

3.2  Employers will be encouraged to improve the standard of living and the provision of welfare services to workers. At the same time, more housing should be provided to low income workers.

3.3  An organization will be established to provide a forum for continuing discussion between employers and the labour council to create mutual understanding. In addition, employers, workers and the Government should express their joint intention for the improvement of overall investment climate.

3.4  The Government will give priority to projects which generate additional employment and labour intensive schemes such as road repairing and the excavation of irrigation canals and housing construction in both rural and urban areas. The Government’s labour intensive projects in rural areas, particularly reforestation and other public works will be implemented during the dry season from March to May.

3.5  The Investment Promotion Act will be revised to give more incentives to investment in labour-intensive industries. More information on the possibilities and viability of adopting labour-intensive techniques of production will be provided to investors. Small-scale labour-intensive industries will receive additional privileges as that they can compete more effectively vis-a-vis large-scale industries.

3.6  Agencies concerned with labour management will be promoted and strengthened. This includes the establishment of a labour court and the expansion of existing agencies in terms of manpower and functions.

3.7  Various government agencies and public enterprises will be encouraged to fill existing staff vacancies.