AP
Demonstrators from the center-left Olive Tree coalition parties protest against Premier Silvio Berlusconi's government in Rome

Tens of thousands of opposition supporters have demonstrated in Rome to protest the policies of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Many of the demonstrators waved banners Saturday accusing the prime minister of being a liar.

Tensions between conservatives and the center-left opposition in Italy have increased since the ruling conservatives approved a conflict of interest bill on Thursday.

Opposition members of parliament stormed out of the building during the vote. The proposed legislation would allow Prime Minister Berlusconi to retain ownership of his massive business empire while holding public office. The bill now goes to the Senate, where the conservatives also enjoy a majority.

The opposition also objects to planned labor reforms which would make it easier to hire and fire workers.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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