Italian left demands work reform
Tens of thousands of people from across Italy have marched in Rome to demand labour market and pension reforms.
Waving red flags, the demonstrators demanded the government of Romano Prodi guarantee better rights for workers.
The rally was organised by the radical left, which is part of the governing coalition. It said the protest was not aimed against the prime minister.
But correspondents say Mr Prodi fears the march will further weaken his left-wing majority in parliament.
He called on his ministers to stay away from the demonstration.
Italy's right-wing opposition was quick to capitalise on what it sees as cracks in the governing coalition, and is predicting that the government will fall next month.
'Do better'
Saturday's huge march came just a few weeks before the budget is due to be finalised.
When amendments for the budget were presented to parliament on Friday, it was the left-wing majority of the prime minister's own coalition who called for more alterations.
However, the organisers of Saturday's protest were careful to underline that they were not marching against the government.
"That would be self-harm," said Communist leader Oliviero Diliberto, Reuters news agency reports. "It's to ask the government to do better."
But correspondents say the message of the left-wing parties - that there are deep-rooted problems in Italy - is clear.
Mr Prodi has played down speculation his government could fall, dismissing such reports as "absolutely all invented".
But more strikes and marches in the coming weeks are expected to add to his woes.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/world/europe/7054474.stm
Published: 2007/10/20 17:07:07 GMT
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