Controversy over Berlusconi’s Nazi slur
Controversy has reigned in the European Parliament today after the Italian Prime Minister appeared to compare a German MEP to a Nazi concentration guard.
Mr Berlusconi, who yesterday took over the presidency of the EU, made his comments to the German Socialist MEP Mr Scultz, after he criticized the Italian leader’s immigration policies.
To widespread displeasure around the parliament, Mr Berlusconi said in Italian: “I know there is a man producing a film on the Nazi concentration camps.”
“I shall put you forward for the role of Kapo (guard chosen from among the prisoners) – you’d be perfect.”
Despite disquiet in the parliament, Mr Berlusconi refused to apologize to Mr Scultz, claiming the remark was a joke, though he later issued a statement saying that he had not meant to cause offence.
Mr Berlusconi’s presidency of the EU is already under a cloud as only this week he managed to pass a law granting him immunity from prosecution whilst he remains Prime Minister. He had been indicted on corruption and bribery charges in Italy.
