BBC: The Italian government has lashed out at an influential Catholic magazine which suggested fascism might be resurfacing within the government.
An editorial in the Famiglia Cristiana weekly is critical of government policy towards the Roma community.
Two cabinet ministers said the tone of the article was "irresponsible".
The Vatican has also distanced itself from the publication with a papal spokesman saying it "does not reflect the views of the Holy See".
In an article due to appear in the magazine next week, editorialist Beppe Del Colle writes: "Let's hope their fears are unfounded that another form of fascism is looming here".
'Bludgeoning tone'
The article is accompanied by a famous image of a Jewish child being searched in the Warsaw ghetto.
The magazine has repeatedly denounced tough new measures introduced by Silvio Berlusconi's rightwing government targeting the Roma, or Gypsy, communities whom officials blame for much of the country's violent and petty crime.
One junior minister, Carlo Giovanardi, attacked the magazine saying: "You are fascists, with your bludgeoning tone". Italy Angered by ‘Fascist’ Label >>> | August 14, 2008
The Dawning of a New Dark Age (Paperback – Italy)
