Top economist steps down from government’s economic council over public tender reforms

Top economist Pavel Kohout has announced he will step down from the government’s economic advisory council, NERV. Mr. Kohout said his surprise decision would take effect within three months. He has been charged on the council with supervising work on a proposed new law on public tenders and on pension reform. But Mr. Kohout has expressed dissatisfaction with the way the new law is being drawn up under the direction of the Ministry for Regional Development, saying that the hoped-for savings by tightening up the tender system do not look like they will be delivered. He has also questioned the ministry’s willingness to get to grips with the problem.