Britons warned off Bangkok travel

Britons travelling to Bangkok should "urgently review their plans" after the Thai government declared a state of emergency, the Foreign Office has said.

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva gave the order for the capital after anti-government protesters forced the cancellation of an Asian summit.

The protesters say Mr Vejjajiva took power unlawfully and the military and judiciary are undermining democracy.

The Foreign Office urged Britons already in Bangkok to stay indoors.

A bulletin on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) website stated: "In view of the deteriorating security situation anyone considering going to Bangkok should urgently review their plans.

'Enemies of Thailand'

"British residents in, and visitors to, Bangkok are advised to avoid any areas where demonstrations are taking place and to stay indoors as far as possible."

The FCO told Britons abroad in Thailand to avoid demonstrations and gatherings, including near Government House in central Bangkok, where anti-government protesters have been holding an on-going rally since 26 March.

The protesters broke into the interior ministry and at one point attacked a car they thought was carrying Mr Vejjajiva. He was not inside.

They have also blocked a number of busy road junctions and at least one railway, and taken buses and two armoured vehicles. The prime minister has threatened "tough measures" to end the protests.

About 812,000 British nationals visited Thailand in 2008, according to the Thai tourism authority.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has denounced the protesters, who are calling for fresh elections, as the "enemies of Thailand".
source
Other news
Sunbelt Software Announces Top Ten Spyware/Malware Threats for March