Forza Italia will vote against the government

FormerItalian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said on Thursday hisForza Italiaparty wouldvoteagainstthe coalitiongovernmentof the 5-Star Movement and League in a parliamentary confidence motion expected next week.

ForzaItaliawas allied with the far-right League in an inconclusive March national election. Berlusconi gave his blessing to his ally to hold talks with 5-Star earlier this month after all other political options appeared blocked.

However, Berlusconi said in a statement that the programme drawn up by the two parties was "a naive book of dreams". He added: "We can do no other than confirm our decision tovoteno in the confidence motion and be in opposition..."

ForzaItalia'svotes are not necessary for the 5-Star/League coalition to obtain a majority in parliament.