Parliament Speaker Vangelis Meimarakis indicated that there was a possibility that a plenary session could convene for a debate on a possible referendum for the part-privatization for the Public Power Corporation (PPC). Mr. Meimarakis said he is open to holding a discussion during a plenary session over the coming weekend – even though plenary is in recess for summer. He added that the government has “nothing to fear” and believes that this move could serve to defuse the current opposition to plans for the PPC. He thinks that it is unlikely that the opposition would gather the majority of 180 votes needed for a referendum to be approved.

The Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA) had appealed for a referendum to be held and another four opposition parties called for a plebiscite: Democratic Left (DIMAR), Golden Dawn (GD), the Communist Party (KKE) and Independent Greeks. Mr. Meimarakis believes that actually holding a plenary session would foil SYRIZA’s plans.

Mr. Meimarakis said 120 votes are needed for a debate on the referendm to begin. The plenary session could convene if a presidential decree is issued.