Italian Republican leader able to form new Cabinet

Prime Minister-designate Giovanni Spadolini told President Sandro Pertini that he was able to form a new government.Parliamentary sources said Mr. Spadolini could present his new Cabinet to President Pertini by the middle of next week.

Mr. Spadolini, the leader of the small Republican Party, earlier indicated he was sure of becoming the first non-Christian Democratic prime minister in the 35 -year history of the Italian republic. He was the President's surprise choice when retiring Prime Minister Arnaldo Forlani failed to obtain agreement on a new coalition government.