TV show stings Berlusconi into action

Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi rang a TV show discussing his alleged prostitution scandal, exchanged insults with the host and said the programme was like a "brothel". His supporters said today that he had a right to defend himself from...

Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi rang a TV show discussing his alleged prostitution scandal, exchanged insults with the host and said the programme was like a "brothel".

His supporters said today that he had a right to defend himself from accusations made during the show.

Critics said the call was a show of aggression from an increasingly desperate man.

An angry Mr Berlusconi said the show was "disgusting" and that it was being conducted by in a "despicable, vile and repugnant" way.

He urged a political ally in the studio to leave this "incredible TV brothel".

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