Brasília - Following his election as president of the Chamber of Deputies last night, Aldo Rebelo (PCdoB-SP) answered questions about the use of government appropriations to sway votes and the presence of cabinet members influencing the outcome. He also talked about deals with political parties and the hearings on motions to expel deputies.

"Government expenditures occur on a daily basis. It is inevitable that sometimes a vote in Congress will coincide with the release of government funds. As for cabinet members visiting Congress, that is a question of whether they came here on their own or were sent by the government. I do not believe the government is involved in the decisions we make here in the Congress. I will not allow the interference of other branches of government," declared Rebelo.

He firmly denied any deals with political parties to ensure his victory and said that with regard to the expulsion processes, he intends to be fair and just. "Everyone will have the right to defend themselves and the proper commissions will be able to move ahead with their investigations," he concluded.

Translator: Allen Bennett