MILAN -  Four former Milan mayors are being investigated for manslaughter and grievous bodily harm in seven asbestos-related deaths at the Teatro alla Scala opera house. 

  The individuals are Giampiero Borghini (in office in 1992-1993), Marco Formentini (1993-1997), Paolo Pilliteri (1986-1992) and Carlo Tognoli (1976-1986).

  The investigation, carried out by the deputy prosecutor Nunzia Gatto and by prosecutors Maurizio Ascione and Nicholas Balice, also includes six other people, including Silvano Cova and Angelo Sala, both former directors of productions at La Scala. The prosecution alleges that the 11 suspects did not make the effort to remove asbestos from the artefacts in several rooms, mostly technical, but also by the famous chandelier inside the theatre. The 1992 Act stated that asbestos would be removed whenever it was 'discovered'. 

  Among the people who died due to exposure to the carcinogen since the 1970s and 1980s include a driver, a firefighter, a carpenter and even an opera singer. Others are currently suffering from pleural mesothelioma. 

  After works at the opera house in Milan, the asbestos has been removed and now there are more risks to workers, much less for the public.