Berlusconi Wins Confidence Vote

But faces unrest in his coalition over poll losses, Libya
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Jun 21, 2011 10:19 AM CDT
Berlusconi Wins Confidence Vote
Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi gestures before addressing the Senate on June 21, 2011 in Rome.   (Getty Images)

Silvio Berlusconi won a confidence vote today, his first test in parliament following two recent stinging electoral defeats and demands by his key coalition partner for an end to Italy's involvement in the Libya military campaign. Berlusconi's forces won a vote on a development law 317-293 in the Chamber of Deputies, and now face a similar vote in the Senate.

His allies expected him to win, although a showdown over issues including Libya may only be delayed. Berlusconi's forces suffered electoral setbacks in local voting last month, and voters in a referendum last week overturned laws passed by his government to revive nuclear energy, privatize the water supply, and help him avoid prosecution. In addition, Berlusconi's Northern League allies have insisted that Italy end its participation in NATO's campaign in Libya. Berlusconi is due to address the Senate later today on the state of his government. (More Silvio Berlusconi stories.)

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