In contrast, Ms Meloni is the leader of a nationalist party with protectionist instincts. ■ For more expert analysis of the biggest stories in economics, finance and markets, sign up to Money Talks, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been placed under investigation over a government decision to release a Libyan police officer wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy announced on Tuesday that she was being investigated by Italian prosecutors for her alleged role in aiding and abetting the release last week of a Libyan official wanted on war crimes charges.