Lewinsky recalled for further testimony as Clintons take holiday

As the country tries to come to terms with his confession of a long-denied affair with Ms Monica Lewinsky, President Clinton …

As the country tries to come to terms with his confession of a long-denied affair with Ms Monica Lewinsky, President Clinton flew to Martha's Vineyard for a holiday with his wife, Hillary, and daughter, Chelsea.

But a sign that the investigation is far from over came when it was learned that Ms Lewinsky has been called back before the grand jury for further testimony tomorrow. Former Presidential adviser, Mr Dick Morris, testified yesterday about conversations he had with the President concerning Ms Lewinsky.

Mr Clinton was encouraged by opinion polls showing narrow majority approval for his dramatic four-minute address to the nation admitting he had done wrong and expressing regret. About 70 per cent also said he should not be impeached by Congress.

But there were signs of unhappiness among the Democratic Party and calls for his resignation from Republicans. Mr Clinton's personal approval rating dropped sharply from 60 per cent to 40 per cent while his job approval rating stayed around the mid-60s.

READ MORE

A spokesperson for Mrs Clinton said she was still committed to her marriage and that her religious faith was helping to carry her through this difficult time. She believed in the President and her love for him was steadfast and compassionate.

Meanwhile, the independent counsel, Mr Kenneth Starr, continued his investigation into whether the President committed perjury or obstructed justice arising from his affair with Ms Lewinsky. It is now known that Mr Clinton refused to answer some questions from Mr Starr's legal team when he testified on Monday to the grand jury.

These are believed to concern details of his intimate encounters with Ms Lewinsky. The President's lawyer, Mr David Kendall, said in a statement that he gave "candid but not detailed answers" to "a few highly intrusive questions". This was "to preserve personal privacy and institutional dignity".

Mr Clinton "sounded good about his speech", according to the Rev Jesse Jackson who spoke to him at midnight. But he had to spend time telephoning Democratic supporters and friends to explain why he had concealed the truth of his affair for so long while they were loyally supporting him.

While the Vice-President, Mr Al Gore, and Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill accepted his explanation and expressed support there was also sharp criticism from within the party.

Democratic Congressman, Mr Paul McHale, said Mr Clinton "lied under oath and he almost certainly used governmental resources and employment opportunities to encourage Monica Lewinsky's silence" so he should resign or face impeachment.

House Speaker, Mr Newt Gingrich, advised caution until Mr Starr reports to Congress. He said that there is "a much bigger story here and history will prove that it was best to wait for the report".