Austrian far Right to enter coalition talks with Kurz

AUSTRIA’S far-right FPÖ party yesterday agreed to enter talks on forming a coalition with Sebastian Kurz, the incoming chancellor, offering a fresh boost to populist parties in Europe.

Mr Kurz, 31, invited the FPÖ (Freedom Party) for talks, paving the way for it to return to power nearly two decades after it last entered government in 2000. “We have accepted this invitation,” said Heinz-christian Strache, the FPÖ leader. His party came third in elections on Oct 15.

The last time the FPÖ entered government, Austria was ostracised in Europe. Jörg Haider, its then leader, praised Hitler’s “orderly” employment policies. But such a backlash is not expected this time. The FPÖ – founded by former Nazis after the Second World War – has sought to soften its image and its recent rise has mirrored that of other populist parties in Europe.

Mr Kurz earlier said that “very constructive” preliminary talks had been held between his People’s Party (ÖVP) and the FPÖ. He said he hoped a deal would be reached by Christmas. Mr Kurz, nicknamed Wunderwuzzi (Wonder Kid), took over the conservative ÖVP in May. He attracted support by depicting himself as a breath of fresh air, talking tough on immigration and promising to cut taxes and red tape.