Italy Senate approves first reading of constitutional reform

ROME (Reuters) - The Italian Senate on Friday approved a first reading of a highly contested constitutional reform, drawing a line under a draining parliamentary battle which had absorbed government attention while pressure grew for faster action on the economic crisis.

The bill, aimed at transforming the upper house into an unelected body and drastically reducing its legislative powers will now pass to the Chamber or Deputies. It will require many more months and perhaps a popular referendum to become law.