News In Brief

Poles indicate they prefer slow over quick price rises

A large majority of Poles questioned in a government survey favored small, gradual price rises instead of sharp increases as a means of reducing the burden of subsidized food on the economy, according to a public opinion poll published Thursday.

In November, the government announced that basic foods prices would rise in January by between 10 and 15 percent, while butter would go up by 40 percent and chicken by 70 percent.

The plans aroused widespread opposition from trade union members, pensioners, and retired people. The ruling Politburo has said it would delay the increases at least until February.