4 MAY 2002, Page 32

Selfish Silvio

From Mr Jeremy Dummeu Sir: The reason Italians voted for Berlusconi (Maggie, not Musso', 20 April) is that they are fed up with ineffective coalition governments and want stability. Unfortunately, they reverted to an old habit and went for a strong man, warts and all. When it becomes clear that Berlusconi is going to provide neither reform nor stability, public opinion will change very fast and things are likely to get ugly. For, as Enzo Biagi has pointed out, there is actually no conflict of interest with Berlusconi; he is purely out for himself.

Jeremy Dummett

London N6