This issue was one of many raised at a meeting of tour desk operators which took place Wednesday (January 28).
Speaking at the meeting, Mr Santi said, “I will set up training for tour desk sales operators which will at least prevent foreigners from being in the tour sales position.
“Tour sales operators will have an identification licence just like we give to guides, and that will decrease scams on tourists.
“I would like to ask for all tour desk operators to send their names to me and we will set up the training for you.
"If we have identification cards or licences, there will be no possibility for other people to sell. If you don't have that card, you are illegal.
“Also, you have to tell me your cost estimates. I don't know the costs of your business. And after the price has been set, whoever sells below that price will have their licence cancelled.”
He went on to say, “At the beginning of February, our Tourism and Sport Office, in cooperation with the Navy and police, will start to apply 'Job Order Clarifications' at Phuket International Airport to every tour group. If you don't have the correct clarification you will be arrested and charged accordingly, but we will let all the tourists go.
“From what I have seen, the problem is because of a price war and using foreigners who don't even have work permit.”
Sithipol Pechkhajee, President of Phuket Tour Desk Group said, “We have a problem about price cutting, this issue has long been fought over.
“Once, Governor Nisit said that if tour desks sold at a cheap price there is nothing the law could do because consumers will think it is for their benefit. Therefore, it will become the operators problem as it is down to them to gather and set their cost estimates.”
Unfortunately, the meeting failed to find solid solutions for a number of the problems discussed. Therefore, a further meeting will take place in February.