Rath: decision to step down as head of Czech Doctors' Association "likely" on Tuesday

Deputy Health Minister David Rath has described as "very likely" a decision to step down as the head of the Czech Doctors' Association on Tuesday. Until now Mr Rath's position as head of the Doctors' Association has been a major hurdle preventing his being named health minister by the country's president. Vaclav Klaus has twice refused to name Mr Rath to the post, on the grounds his naming would be in clear conflict of interest.

On Monday, President Klaus dismissed Mr Rath's latest words and any speculation: he indicated he was still awaiting Mr Rath's next move.