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ARCHIVES	Tuesday, 3 January 2006	ON LINE EDITION

Work harder in every task to serve the interest of people Prime Minister General Soe Win inspects Kengtawng Hydroelectric power project site

YANGON, 2 Jan — Prime Minister General Soe Win, accompanied by member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, the ministers, the deputy ministers and officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, left here on 31 December and arrived in Namhsan in southern Shan State.

The Prime Minister and party were welcomed at Namhsan Airport by Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation U Pe Than, Brig-Gen Thaung Aye of Mongnaung Station, Brig-Gen Nyunt Hlaing of Mongpan Station, Brig-Gen Thura Myint Thein of Namhsan Station and officials.

The Prime Minister and party arrived by helicopter in Kengtawng Hydroelectric power project site in Nantain Creek (Kengtawng Waterfall), south east of Kengtawng.
At the briefing hall, Director of Construction-7 of Hydro-electric Power Department U Hlwan Moe reported on data of the project, progress of work on No 1 and No 2 diversion weirs, intake structure, canal and other facilities.

Deputy Minister for Electric Power U Myo Myint reported on project on hydro-electric power station, arrival of equipment, arrangements for power supply, utilization of machinery, construction of small scale power station and construction of two bridges across Nantain Creek.

Tactical Operations Commander of regional battalion Col Myint Wai reported on Kholan-Kengtawng-Mongnai road and Mongpan-Kengtawng road and Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint gave a supplementary report.

In his discussions, Prime Minister General Soe Win said implementation of the Kengtawng Hydroelectric power project contributes towards the high living standard of the local people. Efforts are to be made for early completion of the project meeting the set standard. He spoke of the need to work harder in every task with the spirit to serve the interest of the local people.

He said construction of two bridges across Nantain Creek also contributes much towards regional development.

The Prime Minister and party observed Kengtawng Waterfall and inspected diversion weirs and canals.

About 18 miles south east of Kengtawng lies Kengtawng Waterfall and the Kengtawng Hydroelectric power project is being implemented on Nantain Creek. Three 18-mega watt turbines can generate 472 million kilowatt hours annually. Forty six per cent of the project is now complete.

The Prime Minister and party inspected the project site. They went to Kengtawng and met officials, social organizations and townselders at Nantain hall.

Township Officer U Nyi Nyi Aung reported on conditions of Kholan-Kengtawng and Kengtawng-Mongpan, rice cultivation and sufficiency and arrangements for cultivation of jetropha curcas. Officials concerned also reported on agriculture, education, health conditions. Minister for Education Dr Chan Nyein and Deputy Minister for Health Dr Mya Oo gave supplementary reports.

Col Tint Lwin of Kengtawng Station and Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint reported on development of Kengtawng.

The Prime Minister said he was glad to see the considerable development of Kengtawng. The government is carrying out the tasks for security of the people and raising their living standard. With the peace and stability, developments will also be made in the respective regions.

He said strenuous efforts are to be made for development of various parts of the country in accord with the far-sighted guidance of the Head of State. The Prime Minister presented K 1 million for the fund of Kengtawng People’s Hospital to Dr Saw He Mu Htoo. The Prime Minister and party went to Sasana Rakkhita Tonhong monastery and presented offertories to members of the Sangha led by Sayadaw Bhaddanta Socitta.

The Prime Minister and party inspected Kengtawng People’s Hospital and development of the town.

In the evening, they went to Panglong by helicopter and attended the cash donation ceremony for construction of MaharathabhiSamaggi Pagoda. They also inspected the Union Monument and measures undertaken for beautifying of its environs. The Prime Minister and party had photo taken in front of the monument. They then went to Loilem by car.

On 1 January, the Prime Minister and party attended the inauguration of Shwenyaung-Taunggyi-Saikkhaung-Namhsan-Mongnai Railroad.

They went to Ayethaya Industrial Zone in Taunggyi Township . They inspected vehicle parts such as fly wheel, oil mill bearing, counter holder and brake drum and patterns used in production at the foundry shop.

They inspected stockpile of raw materials and fly wheel 2l, manufacturing of parts the vehicle and grinding machine for jetropha curcas. They were conducted round by Ayethaya Industrial Zone in-charge Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi and officials.

They inspected display of products of Ayethaya Industrial Zone. Secretary of Shan State Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Ye Tun Sein reported on arrangements for cultivation of jetropha curcas in townships and Deputy Commander Brig-Gen Win Myint on arrangements for the cultivation in stations.

Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint also reported on arrangements for cultivation of jetropha curcas by departments, private entrepreneurs and battalions. The Prime Minister and Lt-Gen Kyaw Win gave instructions.

The Prime Minister and party observed booth on jetropha curcus and milling, fertilizers, Shan Star Jeep, trucks, light trucks and fibre goods and power tillers and others produced in Ayethaya Industrial Zone.

They inspected running of power tiller and Trailer jeep with the use of jetropha curcas oil. The Prime Minister and party arrived back here in the evening.

CEC members of USDA Maj-Gen Aung Min and Brig-Gen Tin Naing Thein met secretaries and members of state, district and township USDA at Loilem District USDA Office on 31 December. CEC member of USDA Maj-Gen Aung Min presented exercise books to basic education schools in Loilem and Langkho Districts, Brig-Gen Tin Naing Thein 100 bags of rice to monasteries and President of UMFCCI U Win Myint 100 bags of rice and K 1 million to officials.

Suggestions on detailed basic principles for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region and State Hluttaws presented Plenary Session of the National Convention continues

YANGON, 2 Jan — The Plenary Session of the National Convention continued at Pyidaungsu Hall of Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township , Yangon Division, at 9 am today.

It was attended by Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein and Commission members, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe and Work Committee members, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and Management Committee members, chairmen and officials of the respective sub-committees, delegates of National Unity Party, Union Pa-O National Organization, Mro (or) Khami National Solidarity Organization, Lahu National Development Party, Union Kayin League, Kokang Democracy and Unity Party, and Wa National Development Party, representatives-elect of National Unity Party and Mro
(or) Khami National Solidarity Organization, independent representati-veselect, delegates of national races from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Shan State (South), Shan State (North), and Shan State (East),Sagaing,Taninthayi, Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Yangon and Aye-yawady Divisions, delegates of peasants from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Shan State (South), Shan State(North), and Shan State (East), Sagaing, Taninthayi, Bago, Mag-way, Mandalay, Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions, delegates of intellectuals and intelligentsia and delegates of workers from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Shan State (South), Shan State-(North), and Shan State (East), Sagaing, Tanin-thayi, Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions, delegates of State service personnel from the State Peace and Development Council Office, the Presi-dent’s Office, the Pyithu Hluttaw Office, the Government Office, the SupremeCourt, the Attorney-General’s Office, the Auditor-General’s Office, the Multi-party Democracy General Election Commission Office, the Office of Civil Service Selection and Training Board, the Yangon City Development Committee, the Mandalay City Development Committee, and ministries concerned, other invited delegates, delegates of national race groups that have returned to the legal fold and exchanged arms for peace.

Before the Plenary Session of the National Convention at 7.30 am, Chairman of the NCCC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Thein Sein and Commission members, NCC Work Committee Chairman Chief Justice U Aung Toe and Work Committee members, NCC Management Committee Chairman Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and Management Committee members, chairmen of sub-committees, officials, delegates of political parties, representatives-elect, delegates of national races, delegates of peasants, delegates of workers, delegates of intellectuals and intelligentsia, delegates of State service personnel, and other invited delegates signed in the attendance books at the Pyidaungsu Hall and recreation hall for the delegates.

Member of National Convention Convening Work Committee Dr Paik Tin presided over the Plenary Session of the National Convention, together with U Tun Yin Law of Delegate Group of Political Parties, U San Tha Aung of Delegate Group of Representatives-elect, U Mann Ohn Maung of Delegate Group of National Races, U Sai Tint Aung of Delegate Group of Peasants, U Kyaw Myo Win of Delegate Group of Workers, U Hla Myint of Delegate Group of Intellectual and Intelligentsia, U Hla Tin of Delegate Group of State Service Personnel and U Paw Laik Kham of other invited persons.

Director (Meeting) U Than Aung of the National Convention Convening Work Committee Office acted as Master of Ceremonies and Deputy Director U Aung Kyi as co-master of ceremonies.

The MC announced the validity of the meeting as 1,071 delegates out of 1,080 were present, accounting for 99.17 per cent.

Next, Meeting Chairman Dr Paik Tin delivered a speech saying that the National Convention resumed on 17 May 2004 to lay down detailed basic principles for formulating the enduring State Constitution; that on 3 March 2005, detailed basic principles for sharing of legislative powers included in the judicial sector and formation of financial commission has laid down; that on 12 December 2005, detailed basic principles for sharing of executive and judicial powers has laid down; and that on 13, 14 and 15 December 2005, the Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee clarified matters on detailed basic principles that should be laid down for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw and Region or State Hluttaws.

The chairman continued that after thoroughly discussing the clarification, the delegates have made discussions at their respective delegate groups and compiled papers.

He went on to say that now, the delegate groups will present their papers to the Plenary Session.

Legislation of Hlu-ttaws is the last part of the judicial sector and thus if the detailed basic principles will be laid down, the functions of the judicial, executive and legislative sectors be completed, he said.

In conclusion, the chairman urged the delegates to thoroughly discuss the proposals presented to the Plenary Session.

Next, U Tun Yi of National Unity Party presented the party’s suggestions for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

When the Plenary Session of the National Convention resumed U Khun Sein Win of Union Pa-O National Organization read out the organization’s suggestions for legislation of Pyi-daungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hlu-ttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

Next, U Sein Tun of Mro (or) Khami National Solidarity Organization read out the organization’s suggestions for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hlut-taws.

Next, U Kya Shi of Lahu National Development Party read out the party’s suggestions for legislation of Pyi-daungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

Next, U Mann Tin Aung (a) U Mann Myo Nyunt of Union Kayin League read out the league’s suggestions for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

The Plenary Session of the National Convention went into recess at 11.30 am. When the Plenary Session of the National Convention resumed U Yan Kyint Kan of Kokang Democracy and Unity Party read out the party’s suggestions for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

Next, U Nyi Palop of Wa National Development Party read out the party’s suggestions for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws.

YANGON, 2 Jan — Presentations made today at the Plenary Meeting of the National Convention by the Union Pa-O National Organization, Mro (or) Khami National Solidarity Organization, the Lahu National Development Party, the Union Kayin League, the Kokang Democracy and Unity Party and Wa National Development Party will be published in newspaper.

YANGON, 2 Jan — Secretary-General of the Union Solidarity and Development Association U Htay Oo received Prof Mr Robert H Taylor, a researcher on Myanmar Affairs, of the

Britain

this afternoon at the Headquarters of USDA here.

Also present at the call were Joint Secretary-General of USDA U Zaw Min, Central Executive Committee Member of USDA U Aung Thein Linn and officials.

Secretary-General U Htay Oo briefed on objectives, policy and organizational set-up of USDA, participation of USDA in implementation of development tasks of the State in cooperation with the people and development of the State. Members of USDA also briefed on activities of USDA for development of the State. Secretary-General U Htay Oo and officials replied to the quaries raised by Mr Robert.

YANGON, 2 Jan —Prime Minister General Soe Win, accompanied by member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Kyaw Win of the Ministry of Defence, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander of Eastern Command Maj-Gen Ye Myint, officials of the State Peace and Development Council office and departments concerned, on 31 December inspected the construction of Maharatha Bhisamaggi Pagoda built on Wikathini Hill in Panglong, Loilem District, Shan State (South), where Managing Director of Asia World Co U Tun Myint reported on progress of construction work.

Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint reported on progress of construction of reliquary, replica, throne and measures being taken for hoisting of Shwehtidaw to the Prime Minister who attended to the needs.

Lt-Gen Kyaw Win accepted the cash donations—K 2.1 million by Prime Minister General Soe Win-Daw Than Than Nwe and family and K 2.1 million by Director of Directorate of Military Engineering Maj-Gen Tin Tun-Daw Khin Myint Wai and family.

Next, the Prime Minister accepted the cash donations—K 50 million by Eastern Command and K 23.61 million by Command/LIDs. Later, Lt-Gen Kyaw Win accepted the cash donations—K 2.5 million by Minister for Finance and Revenue Maj-Gen Hla Tun and K 1 million by Minister for Commerce Brig-Gen Tin Naing Thein.

After that, the commander and ministers accepted the cash donations—K 110 million by well-wishers, K 14.47 million by departments, K 30 million by U Tun Myint Naing (Asia World Co), K 30 million by U Aung Ko Win (Kanbawza Bank), K 8.09 million by well-wishers, K 10 million by Maung Weik Family Co, K 10 million by U Tint San (ACE Construction), K 10 million by U Aung Htwe (Golden Flower Construction), K 10 million by U Thein Win - Daw Ni (Shwethanlwin Co), K 10 million by U Teza (Htoo Trading Co), K 10 million by U Chit Naing (Edin Group Co), K 10 million by U Win Myint (Golden Dragon Co), K 10.8 million by U Shwe Kyaing (Wha Wha Win Construction), K 5.4 million by U Maung Maung (Asia Express Co), K 5 million by U Htay Myint (Yuzana Construction), K 5 million by U Win Aung (Dagon International Ltd), K 5 million by U Saw Naing (Shan Star), K 3 million by U Ko Ko Htwe (Taw Win Construction), K 2.5 million by U Soe Myint (Ngwe Hsin Co), K 2.5 million by Dr Khin Shwe (Zekaba Construction), K 2.5 million by U Sai Tit Aung (Naungton Construction), K 1 million by U Aung Than Oo, K 1 million by U Tin Win, K 1 million by U Yan Win, K 500,000 by U Sein Thit, K 500,000 by U Shein Win, K 500,000 by U Thein Han, K 300,000 by Myanmar Women Entrepreneurs Association, K 200,000 by U Kyaw Naing Oo, and K 500,000 by U Myint Kyi-Daw Khin Ma Ma.

After the ceremony, the Prime Minister and party inspected Sein-phudaw, Hngetmyatna-daw and Shwehtidaw to be hoisted atop the pagoda, Buddha statuettes and reliquary.

Later, the Prime Minister greeted well-wishers, townselders and local national races.

It is appropriate to convene the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session at least once a year

YANGON, 2 Jan — The following is the suggestions of National Unity Party read out by U Tun Yi of the party on detailed basic principles for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaws to be included in the State Constitution at the plenary session of the National Convention held today in Nyaunghnapin Camp, Hmawby Township, Yangon Division.

A detailed basic principle says: “The first session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be held within 15 days after the beginning of the first session of the Pyithu Hluttaw. The Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall convene the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.” As the administrative, judicial and financial sectors come into force with the approval of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the first session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw should be held as soon as possible. Thus, the NUP finds the basic principle appropriate. Concerning the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw regular sessions, a detailed basic principle says, “The Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall call the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session at least once a year. The maximum time limit between one meeting and another should not exceed 12 months”. As the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker shall call a special session, emergency session when the President informs the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker or when at least one fourth of the total number of members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw ask to convene the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, it is appropriate to convene the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session at least once a year. The NUP has no further suggestions concerning the nine tasks of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw as they are in conformity with the nation’s objective conditions. The NUP finds the basic principle “The Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall call a special session or an emergency session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw as necessary” appropriate as it supports the work facilitation of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. The party found the detailed basic principles “The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker shall convene a special session or an emergency session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw soonest when the President informs the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker to convene a special session or an emergency session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw” and “The Speaker of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall convene a special session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw when at least one fourth of the total number of members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw ask to convene the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw” serve the interest of the majority.

(a) “The first day session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be valid if more than half the number of members, who have the right to attend the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw meeting, are present. The meeting if invalid, shall be adjourned.”

(b) “The meetings that are adjourned due to invalidity according to with the sub para (a) as well as the valid meetings that are extended will be valid if at least one third of the Hluttaw members are present.” represent the democratic practice and help avoid work delays. The NUP supports the two detailed basic principles.

The NUP finds the detailed basic principle “(a) Save as otherwise provided by this Constitution, a matter that should be decided through voting, shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members present and voting” and “(b) The Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw or the Deputy Speaker acting as such, shall not vote in the first instance, but shall have and exercise a casting vote in the case of an equality of votes” appropriate for the constitution.

Concerning the detailed basic principle “If for a period of 15 consecutive days a member of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw is without permission of the Speaker absent from all meetings of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Speaker shall inform the Hluttaw concerned to take action against the member according to the prescribed rules. Provided that in computing the said period of 15 days on account shall be taken of any period during which the Chamber is prorogued, or is adjourned.” sometimes a member will find it difficult to inform the Speaker about his absence if natural hazards like landslides or floods occur. Thus, the Convention should consider extending the permitted period to 30 days.

As the detailed basic principle “Although there are vacant seats, the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall have the right to carry out its tasks. Moreover, the session shall not be annulled, if the acts of some person who was not entitled to do so sat or vote or took part in the proceedings are discovered later” is for the Hluttaw to continuously carry out its functions for the interest of the nation and people.

“The functions and records of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be published for public information. But the functions and records restricted by a law or decisions of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall not be published.” The NUP views the detailed basic principle appropriate.

The NUP also seconds the detailed basic principle “(a) The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall have the right to make laws for the whole or any part of the Union concerning the matters stated in the Union Legislative List.” “(b) If a bill initially presented at the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw is approved by both Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw, it shall be presumed that the bill is approved by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.” “(a) When the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw enacts a law, it shall —

(i) entrust the right to issue rules, regulation and bylaws concerning the law to the Union level organizations formed according to the Constitution.

(ii) authorize the respective organizations or authority to issue notifications, orders, directives and procedures.

(b) The rules, regulations, notifications, orders, directives and procedures issued with the right vested by an Act shall be consonant with the stipulations contained in the Constitution and the law concerned.

(c) If both the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw decide to annul or amend any one the rules, regulations or bylaws, it shall be presumed that the rules, regulations or bylaws are annulled or amended by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

(d) If there is any disagreement between the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw concerning the said rules, regulations or bylaws, it shall be decided by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

(e) If a decision is made to annul or amend any of the rules, regulations or bylaws according to the para (c) or para (d), the decision shall be without prejudice, however, to the validity of any action previously taken under the rules, regulations or bylaws.”

In the NUP’s view, the para (e) fails to mention the responsibility concerning the mistake whose consequences may have adverse effects on the nation and the people. The fact that whether the mistake is committed innocently or not and whether the mistake does have adverse effects on the nation and the people should be considered.

The NUP has no further suggestions concerning the detailed basic principle “The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall —

“(a) give the decision on matters in connection with ratifying, cancelling and withdrawing from international agreements, regional treaties or bilateral agreements submitted by the President.”

“(b) fix the international, regional or bilateral agreements that do not need Pyidaungsu Hluttaw’s approval and delegate the President to ratify, cancel and withdraw from them.”

In the NUP’s view, the detailed basic principle “(a) Of the matters included in the Union legislative list, the Union level organizations formed under the Constitution, shall have the right to submit bills on matters under their management, to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in accord with the rules. (b) Bills on national plans, annual budgets and taxation, which are to be submitted exclusively by the Union government shall be presented to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in accord with the prescribed provisions for decision.” appropriate.

The NUP finds the detailed basic principle “Except the bills that are prescribed by the Constitution to be discussed and decided exclusively at the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the bills submitted by the Union level organizations formed under the Constitution, to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be discussed initially at the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw according to the prescribed provisions.” appropriate as it defines the functions and rights sector-wise.

The detailed basic principle “If the need arises to scrutinize the bills, that are to be discussed and approved exclusively at the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, they are to be scrutinized jointly by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw bill committee and the Amyotha Hluttaw bill committee, and the bills together with the findings and comments of the joint committee can be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in accordance with prescribed provisions.” is to scrutinize the bills before presenting them to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. It is an appropriate principle.

The detailed basic principle “If there arises disagreement between the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw concerning a bill, the bill should be discussed and approved at the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.” for solving disagreements. Thus, it is a suitable principle.

The party has no further suggestions on the detailed basic principle “(a) Within 14 days after the date the President receives the bills sent to him by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw after approving them and the bills in like manner as if the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw have approved them, he shall sign the bills and shall promulgate them into law.”

“(b) The President shall send a bill back to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw together with his comments within the fixed time to sign and promulgate it into an Act.”

“(c) Although the President does not send a bill back to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw together with his comments within the fixed time, if the Bill is not signed by the President within 14 days after the date of presentation, the same shall become an Act in like manner as if he had signed it on the last of the said 14 days.” The NUP has no further suggestions on the detailed basic principle 21.

The detailed basic principle “The Acts signed by the President and the Acts deemed to have been signed by the President shall be promulgated in the gazette. The Act shall come into force on the date of such promulgation unless the contrary intention is expressed.” is found to be appropriate.

In NUP’s view, the detailed basic principle “Members of the organizations representing the Union level organizations formed under the Constitution while attending the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw with the permission of the Speaker shall explain the bills and other matters in connection with their respective organizations.” helps facilitate the work of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the organizations concerned. Thus, it is an appropriate principle.

The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker has four main functions which reflects his important role in successful convening of the Hluttaw sessions. Thus, the detailed basic principle concerning the Speaker’s functions are appropriate. The fact that Union level organizations can make submissions concerning their work only with the approval is also appropriate. The detailed basic principle “The Union level organizations formed under the constitution shall submit their general condition, necessary to be presented to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, with the permission of the Speaker.” is aimed at facilitating the functions of the Union level organizations. Thus, it is an appropriate principle.

The NUP supports the detailed basic principle “(a) Subject to the provisions contained in the constitution, and the provisions stipulated in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw law, members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall have freedom of speech and voting at the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Joint Committee. Concerning the discussions and functions of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the Joint Committee, a Pyidaungsu Hluttaw member shall be absolutely privileged, except under the laws of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.”

“(b) Subject to the provisions contained in the constitution, and the provisions stipulated in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw law, members of organizations or persons representing any one of the Union level organizations invited to attend the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw have the freedom of speech. No action shall be taken against such persons for their speeches, except under the law of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.”

“(c) However, if the persons mentioned in the above para (a) and para (b) commit physical assaults, they shall be liable to punishment according to the existing law.” But the party would like to suggest to state the para (c) as follows:

“However, if the persons mentioned in the above para (a) and para (b) commit physical assaults, they shall be liable to punishment according to rules and regulations of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the existing law.”

As the detailed basic principle “If there arises a need to arrest a Pyidaungsu Hluttaw member attending a Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session or a person attending the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session at the invitation of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Speaker.” gives protection to the members and invited delegates of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, it is an appropriate one.

The detailed basic principle “The reports, papers and hluttaw records published by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw or under its authority shall be privileged.” guarantees freedom of publication and gives much assistance to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw members. Thus it is an appropriate principle.

Concerning the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw, the Work Committee has presented 92 points— 19 detailed basic principles including sub paras. As the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw is formed with the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw, the functions of all the three hluttaws have connections. My suggestions on laying down of the detailed basic principles for the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw will have connections with my submission concerning the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

As there may be difficulties for the Pyithu Hluttaw members to inform the Speaker about their absence within 15 consecutive days, the period should be extended to 30 days. Systematic investigation should be made to know whether the cause of his absence is due to himself or due to unexpected natural disasters.

The detailed basic principles for legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw and Region and State Hluttaws, presented by Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee are found to be in accord with the nation’s objective conditions. The Work Committee presented them after thoroughly studying the constitutions of the world nations, the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution. The detailed basic principles are also within the framework of the six objectives of the National Convention and 104 basic principles laid down by the Convention.

Thus detailed basic principles concerning the legislation of the hluttaws at all levels presented by the Work Committee Chairman are appropriate for the constitution. The NUP would like to make a request to consider its suggestions as necessary for the interests of the nation and people.

A detailed principle states “The first session that gives birth to the tenure of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall be convened not later than 90 days after the commencing date of general elections”. Besides, the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw shall be convened 15 days from the date the Pyithu Hluttaw comes into force. An appropriate length of time is required for convening the first session of the Pyithu Hluttaw. Hence, the detailed basic principle is suitable for the Constitution.

Moreover, a detailed basic principle said, “The first session of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall be launched not later than seven days after the start of the tenure of that Hluttaw” is also appropriate. The detailed basic principles from paras 2 and 3 are comprehensive. The party has no further discussions concerning them. Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw members may face difficulties in informing about their absence to the Speaker within 15 days due to various reasons. Thus the period should be extended to 30 days. Systematic investigation should be made to ascertain whether the absence without leave is due to the member himself or due to natural disasters or unexpected reasons. Detailed basic principles concerning vacant seats, releasing of records, submission of bills of the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw, distribution of bylaws and rules and regulations issued by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, presentation of matters that caused disagreement between the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw are comprehensive, and the party has no further discussion on them.

Concerning the physical assaults of the members, consideration should be made according to the party’s submission concerning the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. The detailed basic principles (a) No person shall be liable to in respect of reports, publications and records published and distributed by or under the authority of the Pyithu Hluttaw: and (b) No person shall be liable to in respect of report, publications and records published and distributed by or under the authority of the Amyotha Hluttaw” are appropriate.

The detailed basic principles for convening of the first session of the Region or State Hluttaw, taking of the oath of the Hluttaw members, the minimum number of hluttaw session per year, convening of special and emergency sessions, functions of the Region and State Hluttaws, validity of the meeting and voting are comprehensive and in conformity with the related points of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithus Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw and Region and State Hluttaws. Thus, the NUP has no further suggestions on them. The NUP finds the basic principle “The Region or State Hluttaw may declare the seat of the Region or State Hluttaw member vacant in accord with the rules prescribed if he is absent, without asking the Region or State Hluttaws for leave, from a session of the Region or State Hluttaw for at least 15 consecutive days. In computing the absent 15 days from a session of the Region or State Hluttaw, the postponed period of the session shall not be included” appropriate as the members who are residing within the territory of the Region or State concerned are not likely to face transport difficulties if compared with the members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw. The seat should be declared vacant only after investigating the cause of his absence.

The detailed basic principles “ A Region or State Hluttaw shall have the power to act despite some vacancies in the membership. Any functions in the Hluttaw shall be valid notwithstanding that it is exposed subsequently that an unentitled person attended a session, voted, or took part in the functions.”, “The activities and records of the Region and State Hluttaw shall be released for the knowledge of the people. However, the activities and records that shall be restricted under an act or the order of the Region and State Hluttaws shall not be released” and “Region or State Hluttaws have the right to make laws that cover entire or part of the region or state in the matters stated in the Region or State Legislative List” are appropriate.

The detailed basic principles concerning to invest a Region or State level body formed under the Constitution with the power to release bylaws, rules and regulations derived from that law, and the abolishment or amendment of the by-law, rule or regulation not in conformity with the provisions of the law concerned are suitable for the Constitution. Concerning the detailed basic principle “If Region or State Hluttaw decides to nullify or amend a bylaw, rule or regulation, it shall not harm the matters carried out before abrogation of the by-law, rule or regulation” the root cause of the mistake and its losses should be studied.

Matters that require the approval of the Region or State Hluttaw, points concerning the submission of bills are appropriate.

But, I would like to discuss the detailed basic principle “Region and State Hluttaws shall make a decision if Region and State governments submit budget of Region or State in accord with the procedures prescribed”. We would like to add the word “discussion” as the matter of presenting annual budgets, and bill is important. Thus detailed basic principle should be read “Region and State Hluttaws shall make a discussion and decision if Region and State governments submit budget of Region or State in accord with the procedures prescribed.”

In our view, the Chief Minister should have the power to give comments on the bills sent by the Region or State Hluttaw concerned. The rights of members of Region and State Hluttaws to discuss and vote and explain the matters concerning bills are appropriate. The powers and function of the Speakers of the Region and State Hluttaws are in conformity with those of the Hluttaws at central level.

In addition, they help implement the tasks of Region or State Hluttaws. Concerning the physical assaults, the party would like to state the detailed basic principle concerned as follows:

“(c) action shall be taken against members and persons stated in the paragraph (a) and (b) in accord with the rules and regulation of the Region or State Hluttaw and laws if they commit physical assaults.”

As the points contained in the detailed basic principle No 22 and its sub-paras are in conformity with the detailed basic principles of the Hluttaws at central level, we have no further discussion concerning them. Moreover, the NUP finds the detailed basic principle No 23 appropriate.

The detailed basic principles for the legislation of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, Amyotha Hluttaw and Region and State Hluttaws, presented by Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee are found to be in accord with the nation’s objective conditions.

The Work Committee presented them after tho-roughly studying the constitutions of the world nations, the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution. The detailed basic principles are also within the framework of the six objectives of the National Convention and 104 basic principles laid down by the Convention.

Thus, the detailed basic principles concerning the legislation of the Hluttaws at all levels presented by the Work Committee Chairman are appropriate for the Constitution. The NUP would like to make a request to consider its suggestion as necessary for the interests of the nation and people.

Communication sector witnesses sustained progress Development of communication in the time of the Tatmadaw government Development of communication services in States and Divisions

Modern communication technologies are being effectively applied in political, economic and social sectors of the Union of Myanmar in parallel with ever changing information and communication technology.

Information Technology is found to be contributing to uplift of socio-economic life of the people. Thanks to development of communication infrastructures and network systems, economic and management measures have undergone a great change.

In Myanmar , there have emerged digital opportunities that provide a network linking all parts of the nation and abroad. The development of modern communications is at present wielding an influence on the daily lifestyle.

One can witness the increased use of mobile telephones and auto telephones in the time of Tatmadaw government. The following table shows increasing numbers of auto telephones and mobile telephones.

YANGON, 2 Jan — The meeting of Central Leading Committee for organizing the Third Year Region-wise National Immunization Days took place at Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) in Dagon Township this afternoon with an address by Committee Chairman Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint.

Dr Tin Win Maung of Director-General of Health Department and officials reported on functions to be taken for the Days and the Central Leading Committee members made suggestions.

Also present on the occasion were Deputy Minister Dr Mya Oo, directors-general, managing-directors of the departments and Enterprises under the Ministry and others.

YANGON, 2 Jan — Minister for Education Dr Chan Nyein attended the concert and skill demonstration shows to mark School Family Day for 2005-2006 held at Diamond Jubilee Hall in Kamayut Township this morning.

Also present on the occasion were Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Aung Myo Min, directors-general of the departments under the Ministry of Education, teachers and students.

Minister Dr Chan Nyein enjoyed music, skill demonstration and dance performed by the students, viewed photos and documents and cordially greeted the students, teachers and guests.

YANGON , 2 Jan — The teachership course on reproductive health conducted by Dawei Township Maternal and Child Welfare Association was opened at Township MCWA hall on 15 December. It was attended by officials of Maternal and Child Welfare Supervisory Committee and MCWA .

Dr Myint San of Township Health Department and health staff gave lectures to 45 trainees who will continue to conduct the same courses in 20 villages in the township.