PM Topolánek puts forward potential timelines for the tenure of his cabinet

In related news, Prime Minister Topolánek on Tuesday put forward five alternatives for the tenure of his ruling coalition. The first suggests the government remain in place for roughly a week, the second until the end of April, when the parties are to agree on measures to counter the current economic crisis. The third and forth proposed dates extend to the beginning and end of June, respectively, after elections for the European Parliament and the completion of the Czech EU Presidency. The final alternative is that the government would remain in place until early elections. Mr Topolanek also stated on Tuesday that as the chair of the majority party he wants to form the new government himself, though he need not remain at its head. The opposition Social Democrat Party has so far resisted all proposals for the government to remain in place for more than a few weeks, and is promoting the appointment of a caretaker government.