Ongoing debate about the International Conference on Thai Studies often refers to the extent, or otherwise, of academic freedom in Thailand. While the decision of the conference organisers to accept panels and papers that involve frank and critical discussion of the monarchy is a positive sign, there are lingering concerns about restrictions on those who are not involved in such high profile and internationally-oriented events. One case, from Silpakorn University, is a sign that these concerns may be justified. Apparently a lecturer at the university is under police investigation for lese majesty for asking students in an exam two years ago if the institution of the monarchy was necessary for Thai society and how it may be reformed to be consistent with the democratic system. This question was among 10 others which probed various aspects of contemporary Thailand. My information is that the university has cooperated with the investigation and has asked the lecturer to hand over the students’ answers and the marks he gave them. Not surprising, but very disturbing!