Economics minister asked to size up Belgian crisis

King Baudouin gave Willy Claes, economic affairs minister in the fallen government, the task of finding a solution to Belgium's political crisis. Mr. Claes, a Flemish Socialist, will analyze the political situation and recommend forming a new government or holding elections, the royal palace said.

The government of Prime Minister Mark Eyskens, a Flemish Social Christian (CVP), fell on Monday.

Chances of forming a new coalition seemed remote after Mr. Eyskens said late Sept. 23 that the CVP wants immediate elections. The party is the strongest force on Belgium's fragmented political scene.

Claes said at a press conference before his appointment that the disruption of elections should be avoided.