Newly-elected Czech president says he wants to reduce support network and staff

The newly-elected president, Petr Pavel, has said he wants to reduce the support network and staff that the head of state enjoys at the expense of taxpayers. In an interview on Czech Television on Sunday, Mr. Pavel said the president should not be placed on a "pedestal" but should be a person people can approach.  Citing an example, Mr. Pavel said he saw no reason for a large motorcade to accompany him on trips to the regions and for him to be given the "red carpet" treatment at every stop, adding that, in general, it would be appropriate “to reconsider the level of support for the president".