Greek government moves to rule out a bailout referendum
A leading member of the Greek government yesterday insisted that a referendum to secure government support for its bailout strategy is not on the cards. It will instead try and reach a compromise with its lenders.
Interior minister Nikos Voutsis said “We are working towards an honourable compromise. An immediate recourse to a referendum or elections is not in our plans right now.”
The comments, which came in a television interview, back up comments previously made by Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis, who insisted the other day that a referendum is not on the “radar”.
The speculation on a vote began after Germany suggested that Greece may require it, in order to endorse the tough economic reforms insisted upon by its creditors.
Greek Prime Minister Alex Tsipras held the latest in a series of crunch meetings yesterday, as the Greeks attempt to resolve how to unlock the next €7.2bn (£5.2bn) tranche of its bailout, while appeasing Greek voters angry at the country’s creditors.
Data showed that Greek economy is back in contraction, shrinking 0.2 percent in the first quarter of this year.
However, figures released later showed the government making a surplus of €2bn in the first four months of 2015, after slashing public spending.