Italians losing faith in Europe

Even as their country holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, Italians are increasingly disillusioned with Europe and its single currency, a poll showed yesterday.

The survey, carried out by polling group Demos and published by La Repubblica newspaper, found 53 per cent of Italians had "a lot" or "quite a lot" of confidence in the EU, down from 60 per cent a year ago.

Demos polled 1,500 Italians in mid-November, as Italy's six-month presidency of the 15-member bloc nears its end and it battles to clinch a deal on a new EU constitution.

The survey also showed the euro- which last week shot to a record high above $1.20 - becoming less popular in Italy where many shoppers blame it for higher-than-average inflation.

Just before the euro was launched, 23 per cent thought it advantageous, but now only seven per cent do. The number of Italians considering it "an unjustified complication" has nearly tripled, leaping to 46 per cent from 16 per cent.