ROME, April 29 (UPI) -- Italy's parliament Thursday passed a controversial media law which opponents argue would strengthen Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's hold over the media.
An earlier version of the law was vetoed by the Italian president, but the BBC reported constitution prohibits President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi from using his veto a second time.
Opponents of the law say it secures Berlusconi's control over 90 percent of Italy's television broadcasts, and gives him freedom to acquire more newspapers and radio stations.
Politicians in Berlusconi camp say similar concerns which prompted the veto have been addressed in the new version of the law.
"It is a law that guarantees more channels and therefore more information," said Renato Schifani of Berlusconi's Forza Italia party.
Berlusconi owns three private television stations and wields considerable influence over the state broadcaster, as well as possessing assets in the publishing and newspaper industries.
