Social Democrats seek early government confidence vote

Social Democrat leader Jiří Paroubek is preparing to seek a confidence vote in the government prior to completion of upcoming elections. The plans were announced in a radio interview by Mr Paroubek on Saturday, in which the main opposition party leader announced that the vote would be sought prior to the second round of elections to the senate. The first round is scheduled for 17-18 October, with a second run-off round to be held a week later on 24-25 October. Previously, the party had announced that a no-confidence vote would take place after the elections. The move represents a ratcheting up of pressure on the government by the Social Democrats, who believe that they will be in a stronger position following the upcoming elections.