Paroubek and Topolanek have come out against the proposed doubling of the 'parental' subsidy

Prime Minister Jiri Paroubek and opposition leader Mirek Topolanek of the Civic Democrats, have agreed to join forces to try to block a doubling of the so-called "parental" subsidy. The lower house of Parliament had voted to increase to 7200 crowns per month the non-means tested subsidy as of next January. The subsidy is paid to families with children between 6 months and 4 years of age. The prime minister said the measure is too costly, as it would mean 12 billion crowns more in annual spending. He instead proposed spreading out the increase over a four year period. The Senate has yet to debate the proposal.