Greek Socialists and opposition tied in regional polls

LONDON. November 8. KAZINFORM Greece's ruling Socialists and opposition conservatives are tied in crucial regional elections, according to partial results; Kazinform refers to BBC.

PM George Papandreou's Pasok party and New Democracy are each ahead in six out of 13 regions, with the last region too close to call.

The elections are seen as a referendum on the government's austerity plan.

Mr Papandreou has withdrawn his threat to call a snap general election, which he said he might do if Pasok did badly.

Nearly 10 million people were legally required to vote in Sunday's first round of regional elections for 13 governors and 325 mayors, but turnout was only about 60%.

Second round run-offs will be held on 14 November in areas where candidates do not win outright; Kazinform cites BBC.

See www.bbc.co.uk for full version