Berlusconi plans to move G8 summit to earthquake-hit city

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi said today he intends to move this summer's G8 summit from Sardinia to the earthquake-devastated city of L'Aquila.

Mr Berlusconi said security alone in Sardinia would cost €220m, which would be better spent on reconstruction work in L'Aquila.

At least 294 people are known to have died in the quake, which hit the region on the April 6 this year.

The change in venue still needs the approval of the other G8 members.