Italy’s Parliament debates before Berlusconi vote

With an electorate weary of the scandals engulfing the premier and worried about Italy’s economy,Berlusconi is facing repeated calls for his resignation from his political rivals,labor unions and parts of the business community that once considered him their savior.

Some of his own allies have expressed criticism and disappointment over his government. But the 75-year-old leader has rejected any calls for his resignation. His five-year mandate expires in 2013.