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.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
