Riga - The Latvian government, currently wrestling with a domestic economic crisis, probably isn't on many voters' Christmas card lists this year - which is just as well as the government banned itself from sending Christmas cards Tuesday.

As part of an austerity package designed to cut public spending, only electronic yuletide and New Year greetings will be sent from state institutions, unless departments obtain special permission to send a traditional card.

Civil servants hoping to enjoy a kiss with colleagues under the Christmas mistletoe are in for disappointment too, as the government has also banned spending on official office parties.

Public spending cuts have already seen hundreds of civil servants lose their jobs in Latvia, so Christmas cheer would likely have been in short supply anyway.

Other measures include clamping down on bonuses and cash awards, and restrictions on business trips and training seminars. (dpa)