Brussels, 07/07/2000 (Agence Europe) - Austrian Foreign Minister Benita Ferrero-Waldner informed European Commission President Romano Prodi of the fact that it is not the government in Vienna which decided to organise a referendum on the "sanctions" imposed by the Fourteen against Austria. It was an initiative on the part of the political parties which make up the majority and the decision must be taken by the parliament, Ms Ferrero-Waldner writes to Mr Prodi.
In the meantime, President of the Republic Thomas Klestil announced that, if it is effectively decided that the referendum should take place, he will closely examine whether it is conform to the Constitution. It is a question of knowing whether, according to the Constitution, it is possible to ask citizens several directed questions instead of a single question to which the citizens should reply simply "yes" or "no".
Chancellor Schüssel confirmed he hopes to inform EU governments and institutions more fully about the real political situation in Vienna. He is to meet the Commission on Wednesday 12 July, in Brussels, and will be holding a press conference with Mr Prodi.
Commissioner Franz Fischler said, for his part, that he would not take part in the referendum.