NO POT FOR CHRETIEN

ATHENS (CP) -- Prime Minister Jean Chretien has had his share of what he
must consider dopey questions from reporters, but from a fellow politician?

At a news conference during his visit here yesterday, Chretien was asked if
his government's bill to decriminalize marijuana will be one that requires
automatic support of his MPs, or a free vote. Chretien said he would have
to wait and see.

Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis then leaned over and asked Chretien if
he smoked.

Replied Chretien to much laughter: "I don't smoke."

Chretien was in Athens for a meeting with European Union leaders. Greece
currently holds the EU presidency.