Gov't and Health Minister appear in contradiction of health contribution tax

"The return to a 7.75% health insurance contribution tax rate is impossible" Health Minister Mariusz Lapinski said on Friday. His words stand in opposition to the government which ordered him to reduce the rate. "This is an open conflict with the rest of the government and especially with Finance Minister Grzegorz Kolodko," said a Democratic Left Alliance (SLD) parliamentarian who wished to remain anonymous. "The stand of the government is clear, as well as the guidelines for Minister Lapinski," government Spokesman Michal Tober told Rzeczpospolita. On Tuesday, Lapinski will have to report to the government on his actions. (Rzeczpospolita, Jan. 11-12, p. A1) A.Z.