MPs suspend confidence debate on Babiš government, to resume on Thursday

The lower house of the Czech Parliament has again suspended its debate on a vote of confidence in the government led by Andrej Babiš, with talks set to continue on Thursday. Lawmakers have so far spent 19 hours on the debate, with two dozen MPs still registered to speak. A vote is expected after interpellations.  Government members used the opening session to outline cabinet priorities and criticise the previous administration of Petr Fiala. Opposition parties dominated the second day, accusing the coalition of forming to shield the prime minister and other figures from prosecution and of making costly, unrealistic promises. The debate was punctuated by sharp exchanges between ANO, the Pirates and the Motorists’ party over social policy, housing and climate measures.