Italy opens talks on new government

Italian president Sergio Mattarella has opened two days of formal consultations to determine if any party or coalition can muster support to form a government after inconclusive 4 March elections.

Consultations started with the parliament speakers followed by minor parties, and will continue today with those winning the most votes, whose positions will carry the most weight in the talks.

The populist 5-Star Movement was the party with the highest number of votes at 32 per cent, while a centre-right coalition, led by the anti-migrant League won 37 per cent.