In the ornate 16th century building that serves as his Rome headquarters, Silvio Berlusconi is decked out in his usual dark blue double-breasted, tailor-made suit and powder-blue shirt. Every hair is in place, shoes and socks are immaculate. This is the image Italy's richest man wants to present to the electorate: a dashing, well-groomed leader ready to cut taxes, fight crime, eliminate bureaucracy and create jobs. Accompanied by two press aides, Berlusconi listens intently and answers energetically, often leaning forward to make a point. He spoke with Rome correspondent Greg Burke. Excerpts from the interview:
