Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has launched a new attempt to reform Italy's judicial system, days after being charged with having sex with an under-age prostitute.
The proposals include a curb on the use of wiretaps and the re-instatement of full parliamentary immunity.
Mr Berlusconi says the reforms, given initial cabinet approval on Friday, will make the system fairer and faster.
Critics say the measures are intended to shield him from trials.
The prime minister has been trying to reform Italy's judicial system for years.
"This is a reform based on principles (underlying) civilised life," he is reported as telling cabinet ministers. BBC News
