ROME -UK Europe Minister David Lidington has pledged again to fight for Italy's British lecturers. At present, the Gelmini law denies foreign lecturers (lettori) the same status, social security and benefits as their Italian colleagues.

In a letter to the Rt. Hon. Gordon Brown, Mr Lidington again apparently underscored the government's support for the lettori. “The UK Government remains determined to end this unacceptable discrimination against British workers” he wrote. “Let me once again ensure you that the Government will not cease to press the Italian Government until an equitable solution is found.”

The letter was a response to concerns raised about the Gelmini law by Mr. Brown on behalf of a member of his constituency. The controversial law was passed in 2010 and downgraded the status of foreign professors in Italy to language technicians, resulting in pay cuts of up to 60 percent. It also blocked a number of pending lawsuits that lettori had brought against Italian universities.

The Association of foreign lecturers in Italy (ALLSI), led by David Petrie, has been petitioning for equality. So far European Court of Justice (ECJ) rulings have deemed Italy to be discriminating in 6 cases. On Dec. 1, the matter was brought before an EU petitions committee and the lettori have received the backing of MEPs from across the political spectrum.

On Dec. 3, the Foreign Secretary expressed his concerns to the Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni, urging the Italian government to take action. It is hoped that the lettori can finally bring their on running battle with the Italian authorities to a successful and fair conclusion.

 Notwithstanding the repeated pledges of good will to the lecturers on both sides no end to their plight is in sight.

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