The Prime Minister calls for “loyalty” and insists on her preferences, against the wishes of the Forza Italia Deputy Prime Minister (who relents) and the Berlusconis. The League warns: “Either we give in, or Meloni will go to the polls on her own. Or with Vannacci.”

Following approval at first reading in the Chamber of Deputies, the two-party system is consolidated, whilst the space for third parties and extremist groups outside the coalitions is shrinking