The labour permanent secretary has ordered a probe following allegations of impropriety after a scantily-clad singer performed at a Social Security Office (SSO) reception held in Nonthaburi last Saturday.
Permanent secretary Nakorn Silpa-archa said on Friday a disciplinary panel would look into the matter and the probe is expected to be wrapped up by the middle of next week.
The panel is chaired by Sanguan Wonghumpansook, director of the SSO's Legal Affairs Division, Mr Nakorn said.
The investigation was launched after the singer and reception organisers drew heavy criticism from SSO officials and labour activists.
The performance took place during the party held on Sept 19 at SSO headquarters after its annual sports day.
One of the performers included a female singer who appeared on stage in a very revealing outfit.
Critics lambasted the SSO over the show, saying the party was financed by an internal fund pooled from staff. The party also used government resources which came from taxpayers.
"Labour Minister Sirichai Distakul has been informed about this. He is really angry," Mr Nakorn said.
SSO secretary, Boonsong Thapchaiyuth, has been suspended pending the outcome of the probe, he said.
Mr Boonsong said the singer was not initially on the performer list agreed upon with the company hired to organise the show.
He said the firm was the same one contracted to arrange the show at the SSO's annual sports day reception last year.
For that party, a singer in a skimpy costume was to perform but Mr Boonsong said he managed to remove her from the show at the last minute.
Mr Nakorn said officials found guilty will face disciplinary action ranging from a severe warning, a salary cut, or even demotion.
He also instructed the SSO to give a clear explanation to the media and the public to build understanding as the incident had tainted the image of the ministry and the government.
Other departments under the ministry's supervision were also prohibited from organising similar events, Mr Nakorn said.
Kowit Sachavisad, deputy secretary-general of the SSO, said he was at the party and was shocked by what he saw on stage.
He said he immediately ordered the event organiser to stop the show.
Officials responsible for the party were told the show was inappropriate, he said.