New government secures vote of confidence in Chamber of Deputies

The new coalition government of Prime Minister Stanislav Gross has passed its first crucial test, receiving a vote of confidence late Tuesday, some 7 hours after deliberations began in the Chamber of Deputies. Throughout the day Parliament heard extensive speeches from MPs either for or against the government. The prime minister spoke at length about the goals of his cabinet, saying it would make social issues a priority. However, the opposition Civic Democrats, expressed their dissatisfaction with the government's programme, warning it would lead the country to stagnation and debt.

No MPs from either opposition party - the Civic Democrats or the Communists - voted in the cabinet's favour.

Finally, because the ruling coalition enjoys just the slimmest of majorities - 101 votes in a 200 member parliament - two ill MPs were required to leave their hospital beds on Tuesday to make an appearance in the Lower House. Their presence ensured the new government was able to clinch the minimum number of votes.