Referendum: autonomy talks before elections- Maroni

(ANSA) - Milan, October 19 - Lombardy Governor Roberto Maroni said Thursday that he was hopeful of wrapping up negotiations with the central government on greater autonomy for the northern region before next year's general election if the yes vote wins Sunday's referendum on autonomy there.
    "I hope to open talks with the government soon, before Christmas, and wrap them up before the general election," Maroni told an ANSA Forum in Milan. Veneto is also holding an autonomy referendum this weekend.