Italian Senate approves economic reform bill


November 11, 2011 at 9:39a.m.

Italian Senate approves economic reform bill

ROME (AP) - Italy’s Senate approved crucial economic reforms demanded by the European Union on Friday, the first step in paving the way for Premier Silvio Berlusconi to resign as early as this weekend and a transitional government to be formed. The 156-12 vote took place after respected economist Mario Monti - widely expected to become the interim prime minister - was welcomed with applause in the Senate chamber, where he was officially designated senator for life.