EU starts buying gear centrally

(ANSA) - Rome, March 23 - The EU has started the centralized acquisition of coronavirus material and gear, the Italian health ministry said Monday.
    A video conference Monday afternoon "approved the start of procedures of centralized purchase of material and equipment necessary to combat the epidemic," the ministry said.
    "It is a step forward", said Health Minister Roberto Speranza.
    "Italy has always asked Europe to act in a coordinated way".