16 Nov 2011

New government takes shape in Italy

10:25 am on 16 November 2011

The office of Italian president Giorgio Napolitano says the prime minister designate has succeeded in forming a new government.

Mario Monti, a former European commissioner, has received the backing of Italy's main political parties.

Mr Monti has conducted two days of talks, during which he consulted all parties in parliament, and the BBC reports he is now ready to go forward.

He has received the support of all but one of the factions and is expected to confirm to Mr Napolitano on Wednesday that he can form a technocrat-style administration.

Mr Monti is yet to announce his proposed Cabinet lineup and the details of his programme for government are still to be revealed.

He intends to remain in office until the end of the current legislature in 2013.