Italy’s premier Silvio Berlusconi today attempted to dismiss the continuing sex scandal surrounding him by insisting he never paid for sex because that would remove the “joy”.

REPORTS that 30 women attended 18 parties hosted by Silvio Berlusconi and some were paid to have sex with guests have added to the Italian leader’s problems at a time of speculation that his grip on power may be weakening.

THE approval rating of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who has been dogged by a messy divorce and accusations of cavorting with teenage girls and escorts, has fallen below 50% for the first time.

ITALIAN Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's private life was back in the spotlight when a leading news group posted audio tapes and transcripts of what it said were conversations with a female escort.

The prostitute at the centre of Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi’s sex scandal today dismissed his claims that he did not know her, saying they spent a night together followed by an “intimate” breakfast.

ITALIAN premier Silvio Berlusconi yesterday publicly denied ever paying women for sex, as he continues to struggle with a growing scandal over his links to young models and starlets.