Political crisis deepens in Lithuania

BBC News Online, Tuesday 19 June 2001, 14:07 GMT 15:07 UK

Reports from Lithuania say the government has narrowly defeated an opposition motion criticising its economic policies.

Forty-six deputies have reportedly rejected the motion, while 45 supported for it.

Correspondents say the motion was a dress rehearsal for Wednesday's vote of no confidence in the government, following the departure of one of the main parties from the governing coalition.

The centre-left New Union pulled out on Monday in a dispute over privatisation plans, and tax and pension reforms.

The Lithuanian President, Valdas Adamkus, has cut short a trip to the United States.