Samaras says no to a "free pass" for Papademos

There have been diasgreements between the political leaders and the PM in the meeting in Maximou. Mr. Samaras is refusing to sign a document, insisting that the only OK that can be given to Mr. Papademos is about negotiating with the EU at all levels.

According to information from sources in the ND offices, Mr. Samaras insisted that any measures to be taken should not cause greater damage to the economy and that the goal should be economic growth.

Concerning the current issues that were discussed, Mr. Samaras was against slashing the 13th and 14th salaries, but said he would consider a freeze in salaries.

He was in favour of decreases in pensions and said there should be measures that will have a bigger impact.

- Hiring in the public sector should be at a ratio of 1 hiring for every 10 employees who depart.

- Cuts in contract hiring in the public sector.

- Control fake pensions.

- Increase profits in the public sector from gaming and gambling.

Mr. Samaras was very cautious about the issue of reducing minimum wages and said that it would cause greater economic difficulties.

Mr. Samaras concluded that a general "free pass" should not be given to the government, just the go-ahead to negotiate the new loan agreements as much as possible.