Berlusconi 'tried to bribe Jowell husband'

The investigation into the husband of Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell took a new turn today with claims he was offered a bribe by Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi. Prosecutors are investigating allegations that Mr Berlusconi offered money to David Mills, a London-based lawyer, to prevent him revealing details of his dealings with the Italian prime minister's media empire.

Mr Mills already faces accusations of tax fraud and money laundering after a four-year inquiry. The investigation centres on the creation of offshore companies set up by Mr Mills on behalf of Mr Berlusconi.

It involves ?190million of transactions that passed through a network of offshore companies set up by Mr Mills when he headed Berlusconi's operation in London in the Nineties.

Both Mr Mills and Mr Berlusconi vehemently deny any wrongdoing. The judge in the case, under Italian rules, will decide in the next few days whether the men should face trial. If convicted Mr Mills faces a maximum 12 years' jail.