Arrive at 2-2.2% deficit Bitonci tells Tria

(ANSA) - Padua, September 21 - The government can arrive at a budget deficit-to-GDP ratio of "2-2.2%" in order to fund its pledged measures including a basic income, pension overhaul and flat tax, Economy Undersecretary Massimo Bitonci said Friday in comments aimed at Economy Minister Giovanni Tria.
    "It's clear that we must find a solution and loosen the purse strings a little, it's right to do so," Bitonci said.
    "Tria is doing his job. We know very well that a certain elasticity can be given. (League leader Matteo) Salvini talked about 2.9%, now 2.5%, and I think we can easily reach between 2% and 2.2%".
    Tria has said the deficit should not exceed 1.6% of GDP.
    photo: Bitonci with Premier Giuseppe Conte (R)