Weak inflation reflects family hardship, says Codacons

(See related) (ANSA) - Rome, May 30 - The continued drop in inflation demonstrates how Italians are struggling financially, consumer group Codacons said Friday.
    It was reacting to the latest statistics showing that inflation in May averaged just 0.5%, slightly lower than April's rate of 0.6%, suggesting consumers are not spending money.
    The figures are "anything but reassuring, because they confirm that Italians' consumption is in sharp decline," said Codacons.
    Families have no cash left to spend and that is a driving force in lower prices, said Codacons president Carlo Rienzi.
    The only rising prices are for energy, including gasoline and natural gas, he said.