One of Mr Bossi's most senior lieutenants, Roberto Maroni, the interior minister, was there.

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They include Roberto Maroni, Italy's interior minister, who is a senior figure in the anti-immigrant Northern League.

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Roberto Maroni said it was explicitly ruled out by an electoral pact between his Northern League party and Mr Berlusconi's People of Freedom (PDL).

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In December the interior minister, Roberto Maroni, opted for deterrence.

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Roberto Maroni, leader of the Northern League, has said the possibility of Berlusconi becoming prime minister is explicitly ruled out by the electoral pact between the parties, but the former premier has repeatedly said he plays to win, and observers believe he is unlikely to pass up the chance to lead the country again if the opportunity presents itself.

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