Should a leader be above the law ?

Italy’s highest court has overturned a law granting Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi immunity from prosecution while in office.

Obviously we can’t get into Italian law, but what of the principle?

Is there a danger that if a leader can be prosecuted, the law could become political, and court cases may undermine the functioning of government?

 Or is it right that everyone, including the person at the top, should face the law?

Does the character of a politician matter as long as he gets the job done?

“There are a lot of pretty girls about. I’m no saint, but you know that”

Days after tapes emerged of Silvio Berlusconi allegedly telling an escort girl to “wait by the big bed”, he has finally broken his silence.

Milan’s mayor defends Berlusconi

Letizia Moratti, the Mayor of Milan who is a member of Silvio Berlusconi’s People of Freedom party says the media is obsessed with ‘gossip’ about Italy’s Prime Minister

What’s the best way to approach illegal immigration?

You can’t miss them in Milan – the Africans, Asians and North Africans huddled on street corners, sheets laid out with fake designer handbags or toys on the ground in front of them. They’re constantly on the lookout for the police, ready to run should they catch sight of one. No wonder – since earlier this month being an illegal immigrant in Italy is a crime punishable with a fine of up to $13,000.

On air: Are women taken seriously in politics?

Following your response to Mark’s post this will be one of your topics today. Here’s the discussion you’ve already been having.

Talking points for 10 April

Good morning, yesterday we wondered “Who leads Africa?” So step forward Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa, who’s called a meeting of southern African leaders on the Zimbabwean presidential poll delay. Another challenger is new ANC leader Jacob Zuma, who’s criticism of the delay in announcing the election results contrasts with position of South African President Thabo Mbeki.

And as the list of leaders who say they won’t be attending the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics grows longer, what does China have to do to get the Games back on track? How can it staunch the avalanche of criticism? And what should the IOC do?