Berlusconi fails to attend resumption of his trial in Italy

A file picture of Silvio Berlusconi.

The trial of Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi on a tax fraud charge has resumed in Milan after a year-long suspension, but he did not attend.

The trial had not been possible because of an immunity law shielding Berlusconi from prosecution while in office. But a top Italian court overturned the legislation last month, on grounds it was unconstitutional, paving the way for the trial to restart.

The premier was taking part in a global food summit in Rome on Monday.

Berlusconi is accused of tax fraud involving his broadcaster Mediaset’s purchase of TV rights. He denies wrongdoing, saying he is the victim of politically motivated magistrates.

Another trial where Berlusconi figures as a defendant is scheduled to resume on Nov. 27.