Italian PM Considers New Curbs After Regions Tighten Restrictions

(Bloomberg) -- Italy reported record new coronavirus infections on Wednesday as Rome and Milan, the country’s political and financial capitals, prepare for a night-time curfew.

New cases rose by 15,199, a 40% increase compared to Tuesday and well above the previous record of 11,705. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said he cannot rule out further regional curbs as the country faces an accelerating pandemic.

The curfew starting Thursday in Lombardy, Italy’s most populous region which includes Milan, will be enforced from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Residents will need a written explanation for being out after curfew, according to the order, which runs until at least Nov. 13. High schools were told to be ready to move to online sessions starting Oct. 26.

Rome and the Lazio region around it are also set to declare a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. as early as Friday, two people familiar with the discussions said. Campania, the region around Naples, is also preparing to institute a curfew, while the northern city of Turin will close shopping malls on weekends.

Fractious Coalition

Conte’s fractious coalition has been discussing options for a new national decree which the prime minister may sign as early as this weekend, according to senior government officials who asked not to be named discussing confidential talks. Conte opted for a less aggressive line when he unveiled his latest set of rules on Sunday.

The premier and Finance Minister Roberto Gualtieri want to shield the economy from the impact of onerous new restrictions, after a strict spring lockdown crippled businesses.

The government may take new national measures in coming weeks, depending on the spread of the pandemic, Conte’s office said Wednesday. In the meantime, the government is continuing to work with regional and local authorities to coordinate actions for the worst-hit areas.

Italy reported 127 coronavirus deaths Wednesday and now has 926 patients in intensive care. Tests rose to a record of almost 180,000.

©2020 Bloomberg L.P.