Slovene PM forms new party

The prime minister of Slovenia, Andrej Bajuk, has formed a new conservative party, but will remain in office until parliamentary elections are held on October the 15th.

Mr Bajuk left the centre-right Social Democrats -- the senior partner in his coalition -- following differences over an electoral law.

Mr Bajuk, who became prime minister only eight weeks ago, has been joined by the foreign minister, Lojze Peterle, in forming the New Slovenia - Christian People's Party.

The Social Democrats have said they see no reason for the prime minister to resign. Correspondents say Slovenia has been entangled in political in-fighting since the collapse of the previous centre-left administration in April.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service