Q&A: Monti's technocratic government for Italy

G20 leaders Defence minster (not pictured): Giampaolo Di Paola, head of Nato's military committee since June 2008.
Foreign minister (not pictured): Giulio Terzi Di Santagata, experienced diplomat, no clear political leanings.

A technocratic government, or government of experts, has been appointed in Italy after the resignation of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi under market pressure.

Led by a former EU competition commissioner, its aim is to restore the eurozone's third-biggest economy to good health in time for the next scheduled election in 2013.

Here we answer some key questions about Mario Monti's new team.

Corrado Passera has been given a triple portfolio

Just how expert are these experts?

Andrea Riccardi is seen as a choice that will please the Vatican

Any other interesting new faces?

How can we measure the new cabinet's progress?

Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata (seen here shaking Barack Obama's hand) is Italy's new face abroad

Are Italy's politicians really going to stay out of the picture?

Any wild cards in Mr Monti's game?