Berlusconi`s teflon touch in question in Italy

Rome: Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi
criticised a campaign of mudslinging following new allegations
of sex with a prostitute.
The 74-year-old billionaire, speaking to leaders of
his party today, vowed to remain in office as long he had the
consensus of Italians.

He spoke after newspapers published what are described
as transcripts of an interrogation of a prostitute by
prosecutors last week. She reportedly said Berlusconi paid her
for sex during a party at his villa in Sardinia two years ago.
The prosecutor`s office confirmed she was questioned
but gave no details.

Berlusconi has consistently said he is no saint but
has denied he ever paid for sex.

PTI