Former Italian president Silvio Berlusconi wants to bring back the lira

We will use your email address only for sending you newsletters. Please see our Privacy Notice for details of your data protection rights.

Make the most of your money by signing up to our newsletter fornow

The controversial ex-leader is trying to persuade right-wing Lega Nord that returning to Italy's previous currency is a strong move.

Mr Berlusconi is convinced that the movement can gather enough momentum to win elections next year.

He said: "We will go to the polls in 2018 and we will win."

However, Mr Berlusconi wants to keep the euro and create a dual currency system, whereas other parties want to totally abandon Europe's currency.

He said: "Leaving the euro would be risky for the country: there would be an impact both on public debt and on Italian’s savings.

"Interest rates and inflation would rise, not taking into account the possible wave of speculation."