Conservative billionaire Silvio Berlusconi won a third term as Italy's
prime minister on Monday with an unexpectedly strong mandate to deal with deep
economic and social problems.

ROME, ITALY (RECENT - APRIL 10, 2008) REUTERS-

Conservative billionaire Silvio Berlusconi won a third term as
Italy's prime minister on Monday with an unexpectedly strong mandate to deal
with deep economic and social problems.
    Centre-left rival Walter Veltroni conceded defeat after early results
from a two-day election projected a big majority in both houses of parliament
for the 71-year-old media magnate.
    Born in Milan in September 1936, Berlusconi made his fortune during a
property boom in Milan in the 1960s. He then moved into television and his
family owns the country's leading private TV network. His interests span
Italian soccer club AC Milan, publishing, film and insurance. 
     He entered politics in January 1994 promoting a "you can be rich
like me" message. He was elected prime minister that year but survived
for just eight months and then languished for more than six years in
opposition. 
     Swept to power by a landslide victory in 2001, he promised to
revolutionise Italy. But change came slower than many hoped and the economy
barely grew during his five years in power. 
    Berlusconi, who looks at least 10 years younger than he is thanks to a
face lift and hair transplant, denied any failings. He said his government had
fulfilled its domestic reform programme and boosted Italy's international
standing. 
     His continued control of his media empire has led to accusations of a
conflict between his political and business interests. He has also been
implicated in numerous corruption investigations into him and his companies,
but has never been convicted of any crime.