Berlusconi faints at political rally

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi fainted during a speech at a political rally in Tuscany today.

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi fainted during a speech at a political rally in Tuscany today.

Mr Berlusconi fell to the floor with his eyes closed as he was delivering the closing address at a gathering of young centre-right followers and was taken off the stage by aides.

After a few minutes, another speaker at the event, former lower house speaker Irene Pivetti, told the crowd that Mr Berlusconi was already recovering.

"He felt unwell due to the tension, he is very sorry and wants to continue but the doctor has told him not to," Pivetti said.

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An ambulance arrived on the scene. There were no further details on the conditions of Mr Berlusconi, who turned 70 in September.