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GV ZOOM OUT TO LV Karamanlis speaks and ministers applauding (2 shots)
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SV Members of Parliament voting
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SV Elected interim President Stassinopoulos walks onto rostrum and is applauded
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Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: The election in Parliament of a civilian interim President of Greece on Wednesday (18 December) formally marked the end of the army's intervention in the country's political life.

Mr. Michael Stassinopoulos, a 71-year-old law professor, was elected by Parliament in Athens at the proposal of the Government, which commands 219 of the 300 seats in the House.

Mr. Stassinopoulos received 210 votes in his favour, with 74 against. Eight Deputies cast blank votes, three were ruled invalid and nine Deputies were absent.

The new President replaces General Phasdon Gizikis, who resigned last Sunday to make way for a civilian interim Head of State, pending the approval of a new constitution.

General Gizikis was appointed by the military junta which staged a coup in November 1973 and overthrew President George Papadopoulos. General Gizikis's presence as Head of State was the last remnant of the army's seven-and-a-half year rule.