Berlusconi resigns: Presidential statement

Silvio Berlusconi has tendered his resignation as Italy's prime minister, after dominating the country's politics for 17 years.

An official statement, read out at the presidential palace, said President Napolitano had "invited the outgoing governmtent to stay in charge to deal with current matters".

It is expected Mr Napolitano will ask technocrat Mario Monti to take over the role.