Thailand is set to lift emergency rule, imposed during mass opposition protests in the capital, in many provinces next month, but extend the strict laws in Bangkok. The emergency decree, in place across about a third of the country, is due to expire on July 7.<br/><br/> Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told reporters he believed that the state of emergency is likely to be lifted in many areas. The opposition had called for the law to be revoked for a parliamentary by-election in Bangkok on July 25.