An astonishing row over state aid for Ing C Olivetti & Co SpA blew up yesterday as the Italian government agreed to provide up to $3.2m in funds for research between now and 1994, and hand the company public sector computer contracts. Italy’s outspoken president, Francesco Cossiga, was scathing in his attack on the plan, telling the labour minister Franco Marini If you just want to save de Benedetti, please do so, but try to get him to give you a little money. Do take shares in Olivetti, but in exchange have him finance your electoral campaign. Why do it for free? When he then finances the opposition? Carlo de Benedetti is the controlling shareholder in La Repubblica, which frequently criticises the government. De Benedettu described the comments as incredible statements that did not require any comment. They around in me only a great sense of bitterness.
