Public confidence in economy falls

According to the latest IPSOS-Demoskop poll, consumer confidence declined for the third month in a row to 71 points in April from 74 points in March. According to IPSOS-Demoskop, the public is aware that the economy is in need of reform, but appears to have little confidence in the government's plans for public finances, with the economic climate estimate falling sharply to 52 points from 60 points last month, in line with low of September 2001. In general, Poles' reaction to any conflicts among ministers and politicians is very negative. Recent changes in the government, friction between President Kwaśniewski and Prime Minister Miller, and the conflict between Finance Minister Kołodko and Economy Minister Hausner have increased public pe ssimism. Also, Rywingate has had unfavorable impact on Poles' trust of politicians. (Reuters) M.M.