Protesters rallied at the Thai parliament to slam the government's amnesty and casino proposals.

Footage shows ultra-conservative nationalist demonstrators waving Thai flags as they marched from the Chamai Maruchet Bridge to the parliament in Bangkok on Wednesday.

They were criticising the controversial Entertainment Complex Bill, which would legalise casinos and gambling across the country - a move that would pull in hoards of wealthy Chinese holidaymakers.

They also urged lawmakers to pass an amnesty bill that would exclude pardons for corruption and criminal offences.

Phichit Chaimongkol, leader of the Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand, said: 'Even though the cabinet withdrew the Entertainment Complex bill yesterday, which we see as a good step, we are still concerned because former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra had earlier vowed to push it forward. We need to see if the bill has been truly dropped.

'Regarding the Amnesty Bill, several drafts were submitted today, all supporting amnesty for political protesters, including myself. But what causes us concern is the attempt to include non-political offences like Article 112, corruption, and serious crimes. If the amnesty ends up covering Yingluck and Thaksin Shinawatra, protesters will fiercely oppose it.'

Wisut Chainarun, an MP for the ruling Pheu Thai Party, said the government has officially shelved the casino bill.

He said: 'The bill will definitely be withdrawn on July 9. There is no need for anyone to protest or rally over this matter. Please go home and relax. Discussions have already been held within the party, and I reiterate that the withdrawal is not being made out of fear.'

The parliament has started debates on the amnesty draft bills, including tackling detention cases under the country's strict 'royal insult' law.

Thailand has one of the world's harshest lese majeste laws. Under Article 112 of the Criminal Code, defaming, insulting, or threatening the monarchy is punishable with up to 15 years in prison per offense.

The law has been widely criticised by human rights groups for stifling freedom of expression and being used to suppress dissent and political opposition.