Parliament vote tests Berlusconi after coalition split

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faces a key no-confidence vote shortly his first big test since a group of MPs left his ruling centre-right coalition.

The rebels, led by lower house speaker Gianfranco Fini, are expected to abstain from the vote. That would keep Mr Berlusconi's coalition in power.

Opposition MPs presented a no-confidence motion against junior justice minister Giacomo Caliendo, who is accused of influence-peddling.

The government's term ends in 2013.

Even if Mr Berlusconi survives today's vote, abstentions by the 33 MPs loyal to Mr Fini could still weaken him, according to BBC News.