Italian MPs Caught In TV Drugs Sting
Italy's privacy authority blocked the broadcasting of a television show exposing the widespread drug use of Italian politicians. The 'Lene' program carried out secret tests for illegal substances on 50 members of parliament.
Almost a third tested positive for cocaine and cannabis.
Although the identity of the parlamentarians was not revealed, the authority blocked the program saying it violated the privacy of the MPs who were unaware they were being tested.
A reporter interviewed lawmakers on a draft budget being debated in parliament.
Prior to the interview a make-up artist dabbed the faces of the interviewees and their perspiration was later tested for drug use. The drug wipe revealed drug consumption in purportedly in the 36 hours prior to the interview.
Italy has one of the toughest drug laws in Europe. Under new legislation, people found in possession of cannabis could risk having their passport and their driving licence suspended. Dealing in cocaine or cannabis is punished with jail sentences of between six and 20 years and a fine of up to 260,000 euros.
Yahoo News version
[The program was to air on Italia Uno, one of three national television channels owned by the family of the former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi]
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