Chamber of Deputies approves anti-corruption package in first reading

The lower house of Parliament on Wednesday approved the government’s anti-corruption package in its first reading, although deputies made clear their intention to push for amendments when it next comes on the agenda. The bill envisages the use of agent provocateurs and the institution of crown witness. In addition, the package should also introduce a more liberal policy on wire-tapping, adding new crimes to the list of those where wire-tapping is legally permissible. The latter point evoked heated controversy in the lower house with Civic Democrat deputies describing it as a step back. Prime Minister Jan Fischer’s government has declared the fight against corruption one of its top priorities and had hoped to see the bill approved before May’s general elections.