Diplomatic row worsens over German racist claim

THE German MEP whose clash with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi set off a diplomatic crisis reignited the row yesterday when he claimed Italy has a racist government.

Martin Schulz criticised recent comments by reforms minister Umberto Bossi, who suggested the Italian coastguard should open fire on boats bringing illegal immigrants to Italy.

"Alongside the dubious judicial policies, this is the second point that we have to watch that, quite simply, a racist government is in office in Italy," Schulz told German TV.

Schulz drew Berlusconi's anger when he questioned the Italian leader during a European Parliament session about legislation that critics say helped him skirt corruption charges. Berlusconi responded by telling Schulz he would be perfect as a Nazi concentration camp guard in a film.

Schroeder accepted Berlusconi's expression of regret, but Schulz said he felt the Italian leader's choice of words was quite calculated.