Good morning,

The repressive Burmese junta has agreed to hold talks with democratically-elected prime minister Aung San Suu Kyi – but there are conditions (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/10/05/headlines/headlines_30051397.php). Daw Aung San must stop attacking the country and supporting sanctions – in other words, this does not seem to be a serious offer. Junta cronies are blaming foreigners (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/10/05/headlines/headlines_30051387.php). Armed troops continue to maintain a heavy presence on the streets of Rangoon and the atmosphere is one of grim misery. Crucially, both China and India are resisting calls for sanctions. India seems more interested in access to oil and gas (http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/IJ05Df02.html), while Chinese media are peddling the ‘blame the foreigners’ angle (http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/IJ05Ad03.html).

Junta cronies in Thailand are defending their actions, or lack of them (http://etna.mcot.net/query.php?nid=32024).

In Britain, it is apparently possible to organize an election within three weeks. In Thailand, it is necessary to pass ‘organic laws’ and then plan for months and months ahead. The ‘organic laws’ have now been placed before HM the King and will presumably be enacted, with no one seemingly any the wise what on earth they are or why they should be necessary (http://etna.mcot.net/query.php?nid=31988) – why are these things not covered in the Constitution – they had enough time to write it. Spin from junta-appointed ‘prime minister’ General Surayud Chulanont is that there will be an election on December 23^rd this year and, who knows, it might happen (http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/05Oct2007_news03.php).

Thailand is to face a pensions crisis of its own, as people stubbornly insist on living longer and longer (http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/05Oct2007_biz37.php). Three times as much is being paid out as is being received, according to economists. Conclusion: do not expect a pension unless you are rich enough to pay for one yourself.

Back on Monday.