Iceland Votes on EU Talks Restart

Icelanders headed to the polls on Saturday to decide whether their government should restart talks about joining the European Union. The vote isn't on EU membership itself, but rather on whether to negotiate.

A Gallup survey released on the eve of the vote showed a slim edge for the 'no' side, with results expected early Sunday. Supporters of closer ties to Brussels believe it could help tame inflation and steep interest rates that have squeezed homeowners in Iceland. The country's benchmark rate is 8%, compared with 2.25% in the eurozone.

Oponents warn that EU rules would erode sovereignty, particularly over prized fishing grounds, and argue that Iceland's economic problems should be solved at home.