Violent clashes as austerity protests grip EU cities

Millions of EU workers have held a day of action against austerity, with protests in Spain and Portugal marred by violence.

General strikes in the two southern countries halted transport and closed businesses and schools, while 21 other states also saw disruption.
Hundreds of flights to and from striking nations were cancelled.
Clashes in Lisbon left nearly 50 people hurt while in Spain at least 70 were injured and some 140 arrests were made.
Wednesday's action was co-ordinated by the European Trade Union Confederation. One of its officials, Judith Kirton-Darling, told the BBC that austerity was not working.
"It's increasing inequalities, it's increasing the social instability in society and it's not resolving the economic crisis," she said.
'No future' Unions in Spain and Portugal began their strikes at midnight on Tuesday to protest against austerity measures that have combined tax rises with cuts in salaries, pensions, benefits and social services.
Spain has unemployment of above 25%, the highest rate in Europe
Source : BBC news