Today I went from Rome to Brussels on a regular flight to take part in a meeting of the liberal democrat party. To save money I travelled economy class. Certain online newspapers are treating that as news. It shouldn’t be news. It should be normal. I can add that the ticket was paid for by Italia dei Valori and I used no special privilege associated with being a Minister.
In fact I believe that using State money to conduct activity for one’s own party should be considered to be misuse of funds by a public official.

Italy needs to save money. The previous government left behind only holes in balance sheets and creative accounting without worrying the former Minister Tremonti. When he is invited to speak on programmes he obviously has great difficulty in explaining the reasons for a public debt that is about to reach 5% and of a primary surplus at a miniscule 0.4%.

Italy needs to focus its limited resources on innovation and on the most urgent activities. Everyone must play their part. As clearly stated during the election campaign, Italia dei Valori will fight for a State structure that is efficient and without waste, starting from tiny things like the reduction in the number of State cars and escorts.