Italy's Renzi mulls confidence vote to pass gay rights bill
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Italian Premier Matteo Renzi is considering resorting to a risky confidence vote in the Senate to ensure the passage of a bill allowing civil unions, but not marriage, for gay couples.
He told his Democratic Party members Sunday he is "ready" to use the tactic on the bill if needed.
Pro-Vatican senators among the Democrats have refused to back the bill because one provision allows for adoption of the gay partner's biological child. A coalition party led by his interior minister also insists the adoption provision be jettisoned.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Renzi has expressed frustration that the bill bogged down, considering that he has shepherded through other reforms.
Democratic Party leaders will decide their strategy this week. Losing a confidence vote would force the resignation of Renzi, starting his third year in office.