Italy on Trial. When Judge Antonio de Prieto began his investigation into corruption, Operation Clean Hands, most Italians were sceptical about the outcome. Today they are surprised at his success but shocked at what he discovered.
The jails are now overflowing not with mafiosi but with top businessmen, "respectable" civil servants and powerful politicians. One fifth of all MPs, including a former prime minister, are under investigation. Martin Jacques reports from Milan, where it seems that nothing is possible without a bribe.
ProducefChris Goddard
Editor John Morrison A Barraclough Carey production for BBCtv