Bangkok (Thailand), Mar. 27 : Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Friday refused to step down, as the anti-government protest raised its tempo.

"Whether I resign or do not resign from my position will be determined under the normal political proccess," the Bangkok Post quoted him as telling reporters at the parliament building.

"I have no engagements there [Government House] today but if I have time I will go there. ''Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban reassures me there is no problem and we are still going into the compound," he added.

An estimated 30,000 supporters of the United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) surrounded Government House on Thursday, but police estimated numbers had fallen to about 3,000 on Friday morning.

Security there remained high, with 6,000 soldiers and 3,200 police deployed.

Suthep said he would assess the situation before deciding whether to enter the complex on Friday.

If the protesters obstruct his entry, the deputy prime minister said, he would not try to force his way in, so they could not accuse him of provoking violence. (ANI)