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MV Photograph of Giscard d'Estaing
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SV Poniatowski ZOOM OUT TO GV Delegates applauding (2 shots)
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SV ZOOM OUT TO GO Poniatowski speaking and delegates applauding (4 shots)
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Initials CL/1921 CL/1930



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: President Giscard d'Estaing's Independent Republican Party opened its three-day Congress in Paris on Friday (31 January) with a warning to members who failed to support the President.

In his opening speech, Interior Minister Michael Poniatowski said: "Let us make clear that those who do not want to support the President's reform actions should choose another place for their political activities."
His warning appeared to be a reference to sometimes strong opposition within the Independent Republicans against some far-reaching reforms supported by the French President.

M. Poniatowski also said he would seek election as Party President and called on the Independent Republicans to set up various alliances with Centrist groups supporting President Giscard d'Estaing.

The Congress was held with the aim of making the party the strongest in Parliament.