Silvio Berlusconi launched his election campaign on Thursday by promising a series of welfare benefits including a minimum monthly “dignity income” of 1,000 euros.

The basic income would be paid universally to ensure a minimum salary is received by all Italians - whether they are in work or not.

The conservative billionaire former prime minister also promised fiscal immunity for companies hiring young apprentices, and tax cuts and free veterinary treatment for owners of domestic pets.

“Unfortunately there are in Italy 4.75 million people who live in absolute poverty,” the media mogul told 101 Radio.

“They have increased by 65 percent in 10 years. This is unacceptable for a European country. Nobody can live well, even if they are well off, knowing that around us there are millions of Italians who have to live on public assistance or private charity.”