The parents of Amanda Knox, who is on trial for the murder of Brit Meredith Kercher, are being investigated for defamation over comments they made to a newspaper.

It comes as the defence in the murder trial of Knox and her ex-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito begins closing arguments in Perugia.

Sky’s Italy reporter, Nick Pisa, said: “Knox’s parents have been served with a notice from Perugia police that they are under investigation for defamation.

“This relates to an interview they gave to the Sunday Times 18 months ago in which they said Knox told them she had been hit and deprived of food and water during police questioning.”

Ms Kercher from Coulsdon, south of London, was found semi-naked in a pool of blood with her throat cut at the house she shared with Knox in November 2007.

The prosecution is seeking life sentences for both Knox and Sollecito.

Rudy Guede, from Ivory Coast, has already been convicted and sentenced to 30 years for his role in the murder.

The jury is expected to begin deliberating next Friday and reach a verdict the following day.

Sollecito’s lawyers will complete their summing up on Monday, while Knox’s legal team will present closing arguments on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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