Members of the British Chamber of Commerce in Thailand property say they are still waiting for clear explanations of the recent changes in capital controls and nominee laws from the Thai government.

''Investors have delayed decisions. Confidence was lower previously but we believe it will come back after everything is clearer,'' said Gregory White, a BCCT director and a national director for corporate solutions of the real estate company Jones Lang LaSalle.

He made the comment yesterday at a BCCT seminar on the Thai property market and recent events affecting foreigners, which attempted to create a better understanding among British investors of changes in local rules.

Mr White said any unexpected change in policy creates concerns for investors and lack of continuity increases uncertainty going forward.

He said these concerns were possibly being further compounded by the lack of confidence as to when the proposed changes will be finalised, as further revisions are anticipated during the forthcoming legislative approval process.

Simon Landy, managing director of the property management firm Primo Co Ltd, suggested some property rules should be eased. He proposed 99-year leasehold terms as in China and Vietnam, compared with 30 years in Thailand.

''Though the rule allows leasehold contracts to be extended twice at 30 years each, it would be more secure for both property lessee and lessor if it was a 90-year period,'' he said.

He also suggested a relaxation of rules governing foreigners buying residential units in Thailand. Currently, a foreigner who invests at least 40 million baht in authorised securities may buy one rai of land for residential purposes, subject to Industry Ministry requirements

''An investment of 40 million baht is too high. There should be permission to buy a luxury-priced unit under a condition that requires residential use only,'' said Mr Landy.

Nicholas St Johnston, general manager of GS Property Management Co Ltd, said two issues of concern were the Bank of Thailand's capital controls and amendments to the Foreign Business Act (FBA).

''Capital controls will not affect long-term investment but the FBA would have an impact on additional investment and opportunity for future investment,'' he said.

Another seminar participant said he was more concerned about the political situation than changes in the rules. He said the country faced a big challenge in drafting a constitution to restore Thailand's image internationally.

Peter Mewes, a member of the chamber's property and infrastructure committee, said the 100 or so participants at the seminar showed not only concern about the current situation but also their love of Thailand and desire to continue living and working here.

''I must, however, stress that we are not trying to tell those making the decisions what they should do,'' he said. ''However, we hope we can continue to contribute any thoughts, ideas or concerns to those deciding on our future involvement in Thailand.''

He said that in the coming months these concerns could be allayed and British businesspeople could continue to assist in the growth of the Thai economy.