21.   Among the public, the younger generation, backed by leftist politicians, largely wants to give women more freedom to terminate unwanted pregnancies.

22.   But leftist politicians and powerful trade unions have stalled privatization, and foreign firms say red tape continues to block investment.

23.   But the referendum has drawn fierce opposition from leftist politicians and social activist groups.

24.   French police on Saturday arrested and questioned a member of Parliament about his shaky alibi for embattled leftist politician Bernard Tapie in a soccer bribery scandal.

25.   French Socialists expressed disbelief and conservatives were guardedly upbeat Monday, a day after popular leftist politician Jacques Delors said he would not run for president next year.

26.   French police on Saturday arrested and questioned a member of Parliament about his shaky alibi for embattled leftist politician Bernard Tapie in a soccer bribery trial.

27.   He said he was skeptical about prolonging the stay of Kosovo refugees in Germany by another three months, as some leftist politicians have proposed.

28.   He referred to opinions voiced by a range of leftist politicians, including his main rival in the race, ex-communist leader Aleksander Kwasniewski.

29.   Human rights activists and leftist politicians disagree.

30.   Jewish groups, the Israeli government and leftist politicians have protested the Vatican audience.