The Vatican has been defending itself from allegations that it has been mute over the issue of Signor Berlusconi's 'Magdalen tendency'.

It is felt that The Holy See should be more vociferous in its criticism of Signor Berlusconi's behaviour.

However a spokesman for the Vatican hinted at the actual reason for its silence: "The last time the Catholic Church attacked the sexual exploits of a European leader was when Thomas More had a run in with Henry the Eighth. And look where that got us?"