Italian Socialists offer premier possible reprieve

Italy's Socialist Party gave caretaker Prime Minister Arnaldo Forlani a chance to survive Italy's political crisis by saying it wanted to hold more talks about a future government.

"There are not yet sufficient indications to pinpoint a solution to the crisis, but we do not intend to adopt hasty positions," party Secretary Bettino Craxi said.

Political observers saw his statement as a positive gesture toward Mr. Forlani which he needs to continue his mandate to try to f orm Italy's 41st government since World War II.