Renzi: I will quit if Italy votes against constitutional reform

By in Rome THE Italian prime minister has given the clearest indication yet that he will resign if he loses a Dec 4 vote on constitutional reform.

Matteo Renzi said yesterday that if Italians reject the reform he would have no interest in being part of a stopgap, technocratic administration.

“I’m not willing to take part in oldstyle political games. Either we change or I have no role to play,” said Mr Renzi, who for months has staked his political survival on winning the referendum.

“I’m not the sort to cling to a throne of power for power’s sake. I’m only here if I can change things.”

Two major opposition parties, right-wing Northern League and anti-establishment Five Star Movement, are campaigning for a no vote. The reform is also opposed by a rebel faction within the premier’s own party, the centre-Left Democratic Party.

The most recent poll showed 34 per cent of Italians would vote no and 29 per cent yes, with the rest undecided.

The reform is designed to reduce the size and powers of the Senate, which currently carries as much weight as the lower house, and claw back power from Italy’s 20 regional governments.

Proponents argue that it will make the passing of legislation easier and propel Italy on the path to increased stability and economic recovery.

Critics say it will place too much power in the hands of the governing party, posing a threat to democracy.