Economic Reform Conference and Supreme Soviet Session Proceedings

This document consists of transcripts from Moscow Television Service reports covering two primary events: an economic conference featuring Leonid Abalkin, Deputy Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers, and a session of the Supreme Soviet. In the first section, Abalkin addresses questions regarding the transition to a market economy, the necessity of republican financial autonomy, and the challenges of managing public opinion during a period of significant economic instability. He emphasizes the need for a realistic and comprehensive approach to reform, noting that consensus is difficult to achieve given the diverse political landscape. Abalkin also touches upon international relations, referencing the economic paths taken by Poland and Hungary. The second section provides a detailed log of a Supreme Soviet session held on 20 November. The proceedings involve various deputies raising procedural and legislative concerns, including the status of the Press Law, republican autonomy, and the management of public demonstrations. The session highlights the internal political tensions within the Soviet government as it attempts to navigate legislative reform amidst economic and social pressures.