PROTESTERS on Phuket asked the Prime Minister today to stabilise the tourism industry. A demonstration in Phuket City made the point on behalf of scores of other resorts, restaurants, businesses and golf courses across the island.

''Stop doing silly things,'' said a letter from the Thai Hotels Association, the Phuket Tourist Association, the Patong Hotels Association and the Business Hotels Association of Kata Karon, which was also clearly meant for red protesters in Bangkok. ''Please think about the benefit to the country first.''

Governor Wichai Praisa-ngob praised the protesters for coming to Provincial Hall rather than interrupting the island's traffic by marching on the roads. He said he was happy to send the letter on to the PM.

Red shirts from the island were also welcome at Provincial Hall rather than going all the way to Bangkok to protest, the Governor said.

Somboon Jirayus, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, read the letter out loud with senior industry leaders, including the new President of the Thai Hotels Association Southern Chapter, Suchart Hirankanokkul, at his side.

Behind them, holding placards, were staff from several resorts, spas and businesses, along with caddies from the Phuket Country Club.

Khun Jirayus said new bookings were beginning to slow down on Phuket, with some cancellations already.

The governor told a media meeting that he did not want to see hotel rooms discounted to the sad low of 399 baht, as had happened already in northern provinces.

Red leaders have promised another long march through Bangkok on Saturday as their protest continues in its third week, with no end in sight. Observer are concerned that violence will become more evident unless the protest winds up soon.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has not given in to demands that he step down and hold fresh elections.

Hotels nationwide reported an average of 40 percent occupancy last month, down from the typical March average of 75 percent occupancy, said Prakij Chin-amornpong, chairman of the Thai Hotels Association, which represents 653 hotels nationwide.