Athens News Agency: News in English, 12-03-04

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Poll foresees nine-party parliament

[02] Major antiquities smuggling ring uncovered

[01] Poll foresees nine-party parliament

According to results of a poll published on Sunday by the Athens daily "Kathimerini", New Democracy (ND) garnered 28 percent of respondents' preference, with the newly established Democratic Left party favoured by 16 percent of respondents. The Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) polled 12 percent, followed by the Communist Party (KKE) and former ruling PASOK with 11 percent. amna

The Popular Orthodox Rally (LA.O.S) and the Ecologists-Greens collected 4 percent each. Interestingly enough, the latest party (Independent Greeks) to be established, just last week, received 4 percent as well. amna

Moreover, the ultra-rightwing Chryssi Avghi was given 3.5 percent, a figure which if reproduced at the ballot box would mean its parliament representation.

The abstention rate was recorded at a high 27.5 percent.

Finally, 87 percent of respondents said they were dissappointed with the interim Papademos government; 52 percent of respondents disagreed with the new Memorandum. amna

The opinion poll was conducted by the firm Public Issue.

[02] Major antiquities smuggling ring uncovered

Police said the ancient coins are now being counted and a search launched to discover their origin and value.

They have also confiscated several metal detectors, sums of money and books on the history of the specific coins in the possession of the suspects.

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