The Sgarbi case, why the undersecretary lecturer is in the crosshairs of the Antitrust Authority
Early next week, perhaps Monday 5 February, the conclusions of the investigation could be announced
2' min read
Key points
2' min read
Participating in conferences, opening exhibitions, selling books. These are the activities of Culture Undersecretary Vittorio Sgarbi - the art critic has dismissed - that have ended up in the crosshairs of the Antitrust Authority.
Instruction open in October
The investigation had been opened last October after reports arrived from the Ministry of Culture on possible incompatibilities with government office. The proceedings have reportedly already been closed and the conclusions could be announced early next week, perhaps Monday 5 February.
Anonymous letters
.Sgarbi himself explained that he had received a letter from the Authority 'which had received two anonymous letters, invited by the Minister of Culture'. In short,' he continued, 'the indication has arrived. It can be challenged, but it has arrived'.
The hypothesis: conflict of interest law Frattini
On the other hand, some indications had already filtered through from the resolution with which the Agcm had opened the investigation, according to which the activities carried out by Sgarbi could have been in conflict with the provisions of the Frattini law on the subject of conflict of interest.
What the standard provides for
The legislation stipulates that a holder of government office, in the performance of his or her office, may not 'engage in professional activities in matters related to the office of government, of whatever nature, even if free of charge' and that he or she may 'only receive income for services rendered prior to assuming office'.
