I'm ready for politics, says Silvio Berlusconi's bikini-clad dental nurse Nicole Minetti

A dental hygienist picked as an election candidate by Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi insists she is up to the job.

Nicole Minetti, 25, treated Mr Berlusconi after he was hit in the face with a statue.

The former dancer from Milan with no political experience said: "I was expecting criticism. I am not worried though — I have done all my homework and I feel that I am qualified and up to the job.

"I know I still have lots to learn but I don't like all this judgment of me without seeing what I have to offer."

Miss Minetti spoke out as pictures of her wearing a tiny gold bikini while sitting on a trapeze during a TV show were published.

Anna Finocchiaro, leader in the Italian senate of the opposition Democratic Party, said Mr Berlusconi "chooses female candidates more for their beauty than their experience".

Another of Mr Berlusconi's potential candidates for elections next month is model Graziana Capone, who has been compared in Italy to Angelina Jolie.