2 Italian regions voting in non-binding referendum on autonomy

Amidst the Catalan crisis in Spain, two other rich regions in southern Europe - Lombardy and Veneto of Italy - are voting on Sunday in a referendum for greater autonomy from the central government in Rome.

Unlike the Catalan independence referendum, however, the twin referendums for autonomy in north Italy are permitted by the Italian constitution, and are described as being "consultative", or non-binding, in nature.

The referendums have been called by the respective local governments both controlled by the far-right, regionalist Northern League party that is also anti-European Union.

Through Sunday's vote, Lombardy and Veneto seek semi-autonomy, with more control over regional finances and administration. In support of their claim, the regions point to the extra 50 billion euros in taxes that they remit to Rome each year, more than they get in return through government spending.

These two richest regions of Italy respectively account for around 20 per cent and 10 per cent of the country's GDP.'

Also supporting the referendum is former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's Forza Italia and the 5-Star Movement party.

Italy's ruling centre-left Democratic Party has asked its members to abstain from the autonomy vote.

Italy goes to the polls next year and Sunday's referendum is being seen as a gauge to the public mood going towards the national elections.

--IANS

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