Italy's government set for showdown
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Rome (Reuters) - The Italian government stopped work yesterday and said it was ready for a showdown with its rebellious hardline ally, the Communist Refoundation, a move which could cause the collapse of the coalition.
The Prime Minister, Romano Prodi, prepared to meet President Oscar Luigi Scalfaro to discuss the crisis that threatens the first Italian government to include the left since the Second World War.
Mr Prodi told union leaders earlier that his majority was in jeopardy after the Refoundation refused to back his 1998 budget, which the government considers essential to secure Italy's membership of the single European currency. The hard-left party, which has ensured Mr Prodi's majority in the lower Chamber of Deputies, says the budget contains unacceptable cuts in welfare and pensions. Without its backing, he may not be able to get his budget passed and his 17-month-old government would be at risk.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments