Fuel costs, Meloni: 'Let's consider mobile excise duties on petrol'

The first opening came from Giancarlo Giorgetti in the afternoon. Before entering the Stadio Olimpico for Italia's rugby match, the economy minister responded to a question on the proposal of the Dem Schlein secretary on mobile excise duties after the high fuel prices due to the escalation of tension in the Middle East. "It is a rule that we have introduced already since 2023," Giorgetti said, "we will see if we can adapt it.

A few hours later came a video message from Giorgia Meloni. "We are at work with taskforces activated to monitor the trend of energy, petrol, food prices and to fight speculation. In particular, on petrol, we are considering activating the so-called mobile excise mechanism that this government has made more effective with the 2023 fuel measure in the event that prices rise in a stable manner."

The activation of the mechanism, which Meloni acknowledged was also requested by the opposition, 'makes it possible to use the part of the higher VAT that comes from the price increase to reduce excise duties. It is the sterilisation tool that we had written in the government programme and its activation has been under consideration by the Ministry of the Economy for a few days now'.

Meloni also spoke about the progress of the conflict. Starting with the situation of her compatriots, some - around 20 thousand - who have already returned. "I am constantly following the developments of the crisis in the Middle East with the relevant ministers. The government is working tirelessly to protect the security of our citizens and the interests of Italia."

"In these hours," he said, "we have promoted a close confrontation between Italia, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, initiating a coordination between four major European states to address this crisis together and to strengthen diplomatic action. With French President Macron, German Chancellor Merz, and British Prime Minister Starmer we shared the need to work together to avoid further escalation as much as possible and to contribute to international stability".