Italians hit back at Berlusconi critics

The Italian government hit back at its critics today as it assumed the presidency of the European Union, saying a barrage of media criticism of Premier Silvio Berlusconi was "insulting and defamatory".

Foreign Minister Franco Frattini told Parliament the government had all the right credentials to lead the 15 member bloc as it struggles to patch up relations with Washington, finalise its constitution and absorb 10 new members next year.