World affairs

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been found guilty of fraud and sentenced to four years in jail today.

By Declan Whooley

The 74 year-old has been in the headlines for quite some time, after separate accusations of soliciting underage girls in one of his famous "bunga-bunga" parties - claims he strenuously denies.

Europe’s answer to Hugh Hefner has never shied away from his attraction to the opposite sex and some of his comments have not been well received. One particular quote last year was a gem.

“When asked if they would like to have sex with me, 30% of women said, 'Yes', while the other 70% replied, 'What, again?'”

It is the first time Berlusconi has received a conviction as previous criminal probes and trials ended in acquittal or were thrown out when the statute of limitations expired.

He is expected to appeal the decision as in Italy cases must pass two levels of appeal before verdicts are final.

The trial began way back in 2006 and he is still on a separate trial over charges of paying for sex with an under-age teenager.

We agree Silvio, she doesn't look that young, although this could be a recent picture.

Silvio Berlusconi is nothing if not colourful, and is sure to find an entirely love form of "love" in prison.