Parliament today began a debate on a recommendation to strip neo-fascist leader Giorgio Almirante of his parliamentary immunity so that he can be tried in a criminal court. Almirante faces a charge of resurrecting fascism with his ultra-right Italian Social Movement (MSI). Italy’s fourth largest political force with 2.8 million votes in the 1972 general election, 56 deputies and 26 senators.
The Italian constitution and a 1952 special law ban the resurgence of fascism under any shape or name. But Almirante says his movement is a “law and order” party and has declared he will welcome a trial in order to clear it of the fascist taint. Some political commentators said that if Almirante is acquitted, he will receive a hefty propaganda boost.
A Parliamentary committee voted 15-3 last night to recommend Almirante’s trial. Those voting against included two neo-fascists and a Christian Democrat. Debate in the Parliament itself is expected to last at least two days. The Senate already has stripped immunity from two of its neo-fascist members, including Francesco (Ciccio) Franco, leader of the right-wing revolt in Southern Reggio Calabria.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
