Berlusconi says has 'so much to do' outside politics

(BRUSSELS) - Italy's former leader Silvio Berlusconi gave a strong hint Thursday that he might not run in next year's election, telling a Belgian television station he had "so much to do" outside politics.

Amid fevered speculation that the disgraced three-times former premier might put himself forward in elections expected in February, Berlusconi told VRT television: "I have got so much to do outside politics."

Berlusconi cited his large family, ownership of a successful football club, and organising a foundation to build hospitals, as examples of what was taking up his time.

He said he would put himself forward as a candidate "only if necessary."

But if current Prime Minister Mario Monti was available, "if he can pull together all the moderate Italians, I will be happy not to be a candidate at my venerable age," said the 76-year-old.

"I have supported Monti for 13 months. We have voted for all the laws he has put forward in parliament," added Berlusconi, speaking in French.

Nevertheless, he suggested that 85 percent of the Italian electorate was against the policies followed by the current government.

Just five days after saying he would run, Berlusconi on Wednesday sowed confusion over his future, saying he could abandon his re-election bid if Monti decided to run.