Former premier Mario Monti quits helm of Civic Choice

(ANSA) – Rome, October 17 – Former Italian premier Mario Monti resigned as head of the small centrist Civic Choice Thursday, citing differences with party Senators over the nation’s budget. “I cannot but consider the declarations” of party Senators as “a motion of no confidence towards me,” said Monti, who founded the party. “I resign as president of Civic Choice”. The reins of the party will be taken over by vice-president Alberto Bombassei until a new president is selected, he added. Monti said he would remain in the Senate within its mixed party grouping. Monti has criticized the recent budget bill, suggesting it did not do enough to stimulate growth. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED