European workers stage austerity protests

Protesters clash with police in Lisbon, Athens and Madrid,
 while workers march in Brussels, Rome and Marseille

Workers across the European Union have staged a series of protests and strikes against rising unemployment and austerity measures.

General strikes in Spain and Portugal halted transport and closed businesses and schools. Police and protesters clashed in several Spanish cities.

Rallies took place in 23 countries including Greece, France and Belgium, union officials told the BBC.

Hundreds of flights to and from striking nations were cancelled.

Airlines recommended that passengers check schedules before setting out to airports.

The European Trade Union Confederation has co-ordinated the Europe-wide action.

The confederation's Judith Kirton-Darling told the BBC that austerity was not working.

- BBC.co.uk