Thai government moves to outlaw begging

BANGKOK: Public begging will be banned and buskers will need to seek government licensing before performing under new regulations approved by the Thai cabinet, reports said on Tuesday.
The new rules by the military-installed government would replace the Begging Control Act of 1941, which only imposes curbs on begging.
Government spokesman Yongyuth Mayalarp was quoted by the Bangkok Post as saying the cabinet approved a new measure to ban street begging and regulate busking activities, proposed by the Social Development and Human Security Ministry.
Thai citizens who beg for money in public places would be taken for occupational training, and non-Thais would be deported.
Buskers who fail to get official approval before performing would face unspecified penalties.
The measure must be approved by the National Legislative Assembly and receive royal endorsement before becoming law. – dpa