Turk parl't votes for early referendum on reforms

ANKARA, June 2 (Reuters) Turkey's parliament today approved a proposal aimed at speeding up the introduction of key constitutional changes that have deepened a row between the Islamist-rooted government and its secularist critics.

The proposal would shorten the length of time needed before a referendum can be held on the reforms to 45 days from 120 days. The reforms, approved by parliament on Thursday, pave the way for voters instead of parliament to elect the president.

The proposal must now be approved by President Ahmet Necdet Sezer. Sezer, a strong critic of the government, can block the proposal once but parliament can then override his veto.

The ruling centre-right AK Party wants to hold the referendum on its reforms as soon as possible as it struggles against Turkey's secular establishment to have its presidential candidate, Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, replace Sezer.

Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan, who would like the referendum to be held on the same day as national elections on July 22, says the reforms will usher in more democracy.

But his secularist critics say they will upset delicate political checks and balances in Turkey's constitution.

Under current constitutional arrangements, the referendum would not be able to take place until October. The AK Party, which is widely expected to win the July election, fears the prolonged political uncertainty could harm the economy.

Sezer's seven-year mandate expired in May but he has been forced to stay on as caretaker head of state after a clash between the government and the opposition parties prevented parliament from electing Gul as president.

Turkey's secular elite, which includes top judges and army generals as well as Sezer and some opposition parties, wants to stop the AK Party winning the presidency, fearing it would use the post to undermine the separation of state and religion.

REUTERS ABM RK2308