Former minister Sangiuliano under investigation - reports

(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 10 - Former culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano is under investigation in Rome in relation to the a scandal over an affair he had with a would-be advisor that led to his resignation last week, according to reports by daily newspapers Corriere della Sera and La Repubblica.
    The scandal regarded suspicions that influencer and businesswoman Maria Rosaria Boccia had access to confidential email exchanges regarding the upcoming G7 Culture meeting and that public money was spent on her involvement in official engagements and trips.
    Sangiuliano is under investigation for alleged misappropriation and revelation of official secrets, according to the report in Corriere della Sera.
    The probe is set be transferred to the court of ministers, the report said.
    Sangiuliano, 62, admitted having a relationship with Boccia in an long interview with State broadcaster Rai before he resigned, but denied that she had had access to classified information or that public money was spent on her.
    He said Boccia had been set to be made an official advisor for major events but he "revoked her appointment" because of the relationship between them.
    He said he was quitting because his honour was on the line and he wanted to be able to show his "absolute transparency and correctness without involving the government".
    He said he would take legal action, starting with a complaint to criminal prosecutors.
    The Lazio Audit Court has also opened a probe into the case.
    (ANSA).