Italy's troubles

With Greece spinning out of control, and other European economies looking dodgy, many think that Italy could be the next Euro-member to need a bail-out. Back in November, new Prime Minister Mario Monti rode in like a white knight, hoping to save the country after the confusion (and some Italians would say, the embarrassment) of the Berlusconi years. But his efforts at reform seem to have annoyed everyone, and may now hit the buffers. I visited Milan last week, just as Italy was flush with success at beating Germany in the football. But when it comes to the economy, living standards and the future of the country, people seemed far more gloomy.