It is feared that comments by an Italian government minister could pour fuel on the flames of a row over immigration that has already erupted into violence.

It began when barman Claudio Meggiorin was killed as he tried to break up a fight in the northern region of Varese.

Two Albanians were arrested in connection with the crime.

As his relatives mourned their loss, a march in support of the victim's family was held. It turned nasty, with shop windows smashed and one Albanian man being beaten. Reforms Minister Roberto Calderoli has now stepped into the debate, saying immigrants are naturally violent and should effectively pay a deposit to enter the country.

Such comments do little to ease tension as the two Albanians arrested over the stabbing are put through the justice system. Banners have even been put up calling for the death penalty for the pair.

Calderoli's comments also include a call for immigration to be halted at the border "with the use of force, if necessary."
As she prepares to bury her son, meanwhile, Claudio Meggiorin's mother has made an appeal for calm.

PHOTO CAPTION

Roberto Calderoli.