Berlusconi: Until 2013 with this government

Even if a few hours earlier his government had obtained (317 against 293) the confidence of the Chamber on the development decree, Berlusconi's speech which opened the verification in the Senate was far from triumphalistic. At least in the tones, which appeared calm, even resigned in some passages. On the other hand, the prime minister's objective is firm and clear: to reach 2013, until the end of the Legislature. Thus, while he even asked for the collaboration of the opposition parties, especially the centrist ones, to better serve the interests of the country, he reiterated the objectives of his program point by point, setting tight deadlines. The 5 key points of the program have been confirmed: fiscal federalism, tax reform, justice, security and a plan for the south. And of course the start of the constitutional reform of the state. Ambitious and extensive programme. But Berlusconi's goal "is not to be the leader of the centre-right for life", but to "leave a legacy to a large moderate party, inspired by the EPP, and a bulwark of freedom". So far the principles. As for the issues of political controversy, even within the centre-right, the prime minister wanted to reassure both Tremonti and Bossi. To the first he solemnly praised the way he kept the public finances in order and reassured him of the fact that no one ("it's just a grotesque representation of the newspapers") thinks of reforming the tax deficit. To the second, after thanking him for the loyal alliance that "no one will ever be able to put at risk", he granted the assurance that there will be reward mechanisms for virtuous municipalities and punitive ones for those who are not. Naturally also, if not in deficit, Berlusconi is certain to present the delegation for tax reform before the summer break, with only three rates, lower for all, and reducing the number of taxes to 5. On the mission in Libya he reassured the Northern League by recalling that NATO and the allies also expect the end of the bombing by September. And as regards the costs of the missions, he has put everything back to after the Supreme Defense Council chaired by Napolitano and set for the beginning of July. Tomorrow the reply in the House. Votes of confidence are not expected at the moment. the oppositions are announcing harsh criticisms, but with summer looming, it doesn't seem like time for a shove. Better get ready for autumn.