Violence erupts at mass rally in Athens

GREEK politicians have granted initial approval to a new austerity bill which proposes spending cuts and tax hikes that have sparked fury on the streets of Athens.

The bill received a 154-141 approval. A second vote will be held today in the 300-member parliament and only after that vote will the bill have passed.

The bill plans new tax hikes, further pension and salary cuts, the suspension on reduced pay of 30,000 public servants and the suspension of collective labour contracts.