MNI BRIEF: Rome Rejects ESM Ratification, Next Try in 6 Months

Italy's lower house of Parliament rejected ratifying modifications to the European Stability Mechanism Thursday, with a fresh vote now at least 6 months away after the June European Parliament elections.

The vote was a surprise move by lawmakers who were seen to be leaning towards taking more time to reach a decision. The Italian government, currently on the deal with Brussels to reform the Stability and Growth Pact, was absent during the vote and points firmly to the independence of the Italian parliament for the outcome, saying it has nothing to do with the executive, government sources told MNI.

The government coalition voted independently, with pro-ESM ratification Forza Italian abstaining, while the Brothers of Italy and the League voted against, despite the strong internal debate. Despite agreeing on the latest proposal for fiscal rule reform, Rome has felt sidelined by Paris and Berlin over the current proposals, the soucres said. (MNI: Italy Delays ESM Vote To Boost EU Fiscal Rules Bargaining)