Bella Italia
Before the Second World War, Benito Mussolini wanted to promote his son-in-law to be Italy’s Foreign Minister. That meant asking Count Grandi to step down. He was offered the ambassadorship in London, but agreed to take this on only if he could have the pick of the Italian Government’s art collection. That is essentially why the embassy in London is so exceptionally beautiful.
I have had the pleasure of the company of the ambassador and his wife in my constituency, where we went racing in Newmarket. They had the opportunity of meeting the jockey Frankie Dettori and the distinguished racing trainer Luca Lumani.
One of the most pleasant aspects of being Italian Ambassador here is that everybody loves Italy, a country with no enemies, and you are surrounded at home by some of the most magnificent artefacts of an extraordinary culture and civilisation. I was lucky enough to dine there earlier this week. And the food matched the surroundings.