Noord-Italië krijgt meer autonomie (en)

The Italian Parliament on Wednesday approved important new legislation allowing more power to be extended to Northern Italy

Under the new laws, the 20 regions will gain new powers in health, education and law and order.

The new measures are being seen as a victory for the right-wing Northern League Party which championed the reform.

The measures still have to complete more parliamentary hurdles and could possibly be put to a referendum.

However, Northern League member Roberto Calderoli, who is Italy's minister responsible for devolution, was confident of its success.

"I believe that a reform of these dimensions must definitely be submitted to the judgment of the voters, and it will be the people who will say if it's good or not", said Mr Calderoli, according to the Financial Times.