Poland's Solidarity government said Monday it would seek temporary special powers to speed up legislation by issuing decrees.

It also said it would ask parliament to approve constitutional reforms permanently strengthening its executive authority.The government announced its decision after a showdown with ex-Communists in the Sejm (lower house), which it accuses of delaying or blocking free-market reform legislation and personnel appointments.

A communique issued after a late-night meeting of Prime Minister Jan Krzysztof Bielecki's Cabinet said it would ask the Sejm to hold a special meeting this week to consider the proposals.

Both the temporary decree legislation and the constitutional changes will require a two-thirds vote in favor to pass the Sejm.

It was not immediately clear if the government could muster the required majority.

The government said a legislative logjam in parliament and the weak position of the executive authority were among the most urgent issues facing Poland at a time of crisis at home and abroad.

The government decided to demand special powers after the Sejm delayed approval last week of drastic budget cuts necessitated by a deep recession that has slashed government income and caused a big deficit.

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