various attempts to get the JVP to agree to talks. The latest such attempt was a three day 'curfew' in the JVP stronghold to coincide with Premadasa's visit to the area. Given the JVP demands of a total change of government if not the system, it would indeed have been surprising if the party had agreed to peace talks. For Premadasa bringing the JVP to heel had in recent months become even more crucial than winning over the LTTE. For the JVP had successfully brought the economy to a grinding halt in many areas.