MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Chilean administration recovers support.

The Chilean administration of President Ricardo Lagos has a 47% public opinion support, but 32% still express disapproval, according to the latest poll made public this week by the prestigious “Fundación Futuro” from Santiago.

This represents a one point increase over the last similar poll in September and four points less of disapproval.

However 42% of those interviewed describe the performance of the Lagos administration as "good or very good", seven points above last September and more than ten points compared to a year ago, 31%. Those who consider the performance fair dropped three points since last September and now stand at 43% while those openly describing it as "bad or very bad" total 13%, with a five points drop.

As to the most popular personalities, two ladies figure at the top of the list, Defence Minister Michelle Bachelet with an 86% positive image, followed by Foreign Secretary Soledad Alvear with 81%. President Lagos has a 62% positive image and his main opponent, leader of the opposition and Mayor of Santiago, Joaquín Lavin 61%.

Regarding economic expectations for 2004, a majority of Chileans, 54,8%, believe things will improve with 8,5% anticipating worse conditions.

Half of those interviewed considered the management of the economy "fair", and 29% "good or very good", an 11 points increase over September.

Some of the main issues for Chileans include a divorce bill, the first ever, currently being considered in Congress and which has a 68% support with 30% against.

The National Health Service reform also under consideration is controversial with a majority, 54%, believing the new system will improve conditions.

Another issue that has divided the Chilean society is freedom of speech and freedom of the press. A majority of Chileans believe ensuring freedom of speech is more important than a bill protecting privacy and honour.

The poll was done 18, 19 and 20 December consulting 400 people (over 18) by phone in urban locations, which represent 76% of the Chilean population. The precision margin is plus-minus 4,9% according to Fundación Futuro.