STATE OF EMERGENCY: THE FIRST 24 HOURS

Wednesday has dawned with no prospect of an end in sight to the current protests.
The Bangkok Post, regarded as generally pro-Government, has a strong page one editorial comment that is highly critical of Prime Minister Samak's decision yesterday to declare a State of Emergency in Bangkok.
Elsewhere there are fewer buses on the streets this morning. Strike action at various public utilities and services has been promised, including buses, airlines, water and electricity. CAT Telecom has even threatened to block International Direct Dial calls unless Samak resigns.
The Prime Minister seems to have few ways out now.