Spain and Portugal see big anti-austerity rallies

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-19611375


In Lisbon, protesters clashed with riot police outside the parliament building


Tens of thousands of people have rallied in Spain and Portugal in protest at spending cuts and tax rises in the debt-hit countries.

In Madrid, public sector workers from all over Spain blocked the capital's Plaza de Colon square and nearby roads.

Protests were held in Lisbon and across Portugal, with one person reportedly attempting to set himself on fire.

The Spanish and Portuguese governments say the austerity measures will lead to economic recovery.