BANGKOK, May 3 (Reuters) - These are some of the leading stories in Thai newspapers on Thursday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

TOP STORIES

- The Fourth Army is considering offering a limited amnesty in a bid to undermine the southern insurgency movement, which is said to be showing signs of division (BANGKOK POST)

- Former Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai warned the government to be careful about a suggestion to grant amnesty to southern militants, saying it could create a moral hazard and discourage innocent people (THE NATION)

- Thai HIV/AIDS infected people planned a rally in front of the U.S. Embassy on Thursday to protest against the U.S. Trade Representative's decision to downgrade Thailand's trade status (THE NATION)

- Acting national police chief Seripisuth Temiyavej has defended Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont's decision to transfer his predecessor as proper and compliant with regulations (BANGKOK POST)

BUSINESS

- The Finance Ministry launched a 44-billion-baht ($1.35 billion) economic stimulus package to give access to loans to people with small businesses and low-income groups (THE NATION)

- The government needs to implement tax measures, including a cut in property tax, to improve economic growth to 4.5 percent this year, Finance Minister Chalongphob Sussangkarn said (BANGKOK POST)

- Airports of Thailand <AOT.BK> may have to meet the cost of repairs to runaways and taxiways at Suvarnabhumi airport because the damage is not covered by the contractor's insurance, an AOT source said (BANGKOK POST)

- Purchasing a condominium as a long-term investment is emerging as an interesting option in the light of political and economic uncertainties and falling interest rates, property consulting firm CB Richard Ellis said (THE NATION)

** Looking for more information from local sources? Factiva.com has eight Thai sources including the Bangkok Post and Business Day. ($1=32.57 baht)

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