Conte hits back at League's bias charge

(ANSA) - Rome, May 20 - Premier Giuseppe Conte hit back angrily on Monday at a claim by Cabinet Secretary and League bigwig Giancarlo Giorgetti that he biased in favour of the 5-Star Movement (M5S). "I haven't let myself get involved in the competition for votes (in this week's European) election. You'll never find a statement of mine that favours one party or another (within the governing coalition)," Conte said. "But I see that controversy and emotional reactions are increasing in the final straight (to the vote). "Be careful though. I say this to everyone. When the political debate gets to the level of putting into doubt the premier's impartiality, it is not serious, it is extremely serious". He also said that if anyone in the government wants to say something, it should be said at cabinet, adding that a cabinet meeting will take place later on Monday. "It's Constitutional grammar," he said.
    "If you question the impartiality and work of the premier, you also question the government's work and so it is necessary to do this on the basis of clear, transparent procedures.
    "The official venues are the cabinet and parliament.
    "I cannot accept allusions, insinuations given to the press with half an interview, half a video on Facebook.
    "Those who do this should take on the responsibility".