Italy goes Texan?
Shooting a thief no longer a crime in Italy

Italy's parliament approved today a law that allows citizens to shoot robbers in self-defence, a measure that critics say will encourage people to take the law into their own hands.

The reform was championed by the populist Northern League party, which regularly calls for the castration of rapists.

It authorises the use of guns and knives as legitimate defence by victims of robberies and break-ins in their own house, workplace or in a shop, whether it is to protect someone's life or belongings.

It sounds like something out of Texas: Italy approves self-defence law

The new law will allow people to use legally registered weapons to protect themselves or others, and their property and the property of others, from harm.

It applies if there is a danger of aggression and the attacker does not desist.

The question remains, will the law stick, or will it be gone if an opposing party wins in the next general election?

(Italy, European Union)