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Blake, Wm. Fire. 1757.

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Officials in Milan have proposed a ban on late-night takeaway food, including ice cream, to combat disturbances from the city’s nightlife, causing public outcry. Past attempts to implement similar restrictions were met with protests, leading to policy reversals.

Deputy Mayor Marco Granelli announced the plan, which restricts food sales after midnight and requires bars and restaurants to close outdoor areas early: “The rule would strike a balance between camaraderie and fun, the peace and health of residents, and the free economic activity of traders and entrepreneurs who provide work.”

The secretary general of a local retailers’ association criticized the move: “What does the average Italian family do in the summer? They go for a stroll after dinner and get an ice-cream. It’s a classic tradition and so it’s clear that if you interfere with this type of cultural habit, people won’t be happy.”