Bulletin: The Palace of Culture is perhaps Poland's most famous building. Was it difficult to persuade the Government to allow it to be used for the Championships?

AO: No. We are a free market economy now, so it was simply a matter of money. However, The City Council assisted greatly by giving us a generous discount on the normal rates.

Bulletin: How have the Championships been financed?

AO: The chief sponsor is PROKOM Software, but we have found several smaller sponsors. The Polish Bridge Federation makes a major contribution, as does the Ministry of Sport.

Bulletin: So bridge is treated as a sport in Poland?

AO: Certainly. We are full members of the Polish Olympic Committee and government departments treat bridge on the same basis as other sports.

Bulletin: We see television crews going round the championships. How much is being shown on television?

AO: Five channels have been present here, two State and three commercial. They are all giving regular reports, sometimes more than once a day, with news of the leaders. There have been interviews on radio with interesting stories about the personalities playing. In addition there is a crew making a video of the championships in two parts. The first will be available on Thursday for purchase at reception here. The commentary is in English, and players will have a chance to see themselves in action. The second video will be of the finals and will be sent after the championships end. Copies should be paid for before people leave.

Bulletin: Is there good coverage in the Press?

AO: A couple of the leading newspapers have agreed to give their patronage to the championships which means daily reports. Clippings can be seen on the Press Room Board. Ouyr bridge columns are mostly bridge corners.

Bulletin: Thank you for your time.