(ANSA) - ROME, DEC 15 - Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini on Sunday clashed with veteran rock star Vasco Rossi over his reform of the highway code which, among other things, stiffens punishments for people who drive after taking drugs.
    The League leader told Rossi to speak to "the relatives of someone who has died in a road accident involving someone driving under the influence of drugs" after the singer said the changes mean you could get arrested "if you smoked a joint a week ago".
    'Alcohol and drugs are not a laughing matter," continued Salvini.
    "I hope to go to many more Vasco concerts, but the new Highway Code is all about saving lives".
    The 72-year-old artist hit back in a statement to ANSA.
    "I am also close (like everyone else) to the relatives of victims of road accidents caused by drunk or drugged-up drivers," Rossi said.
    "But Salvini's new law does not prevent this. It saves no lives! "It punishes and arrests those who, while perfectly lucid behind the wheel, may have taken cannabis or even (been exposed to) second-hand smoke, including in the days before driving.
    "This does not reduce road accidents, it is propaganda.... and persecuting a minority that cannot defend itself.
    "I hate bullies! Salvini is strong with the weak and weak with the strong". (ANSA).