Speculation is rife as to how Sharon will act. Finance Minister Silvan Shalom said that the Prime Minister wanted to make it clear that ministers must not vote against government decisions, implying that today\'s abstention may be acceptable. On the other hand, Likud Knesset faction leader MK Ze\'ev Boim said that he thinks that Prime Minister Sharon should not retract the letters - although he added that he was sure that Sharon would consult with the MKs before making such a decision regarding the \"historic alliance\" between the Likud and Shas.