Berlusconi Seeks Deal on Measures as EU Calls for ‘Action’

Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is seeking a last-minute agreement with allies on measures to spur economic growth as the European Union called on Italy to commit to “specific actions” to fight the sovereign-debt crisis.

Berlusconi met again today with members of his coalition to discuss a proposal to raise the retirement age after ministers failed to take any decisions at a Cabinet meeting late yesterday amid opposition by the Northern League, Berlusconi’s key ally. League leader Umberto Bossi told reporters in Rome that it’s “difficult, very difficult” to reach an agreement.