Spain sees widespread disruption in first general strike for 14 years

Transport and other public services across Spain have faced serious disruption in the first general strike for 14 years called by the main unions over housing and the high cost of living. Demonstrations have taken place across the country, including in Madrid and Barcelona, where tens of thousands marched in the evening.

The head of the big UGT labour union, Pepe Álvarez, said the strike was a success with "massive" participation, while Unai Sordo of the CC OO union said turnout was "very significant." However, the Spanish Confederation of Business Organisations said participation was "low and uneven", depending on the areas and sectors involved. Some of the biggest disruption on Wednesday was seen in the main industrial hubs of Madrid and the north-eastern region of Catalonia where traffic was halted on several main roads.

The interior ministry said dozens of people were arrested for a variety of incidents and Spanish reports said estate agencies had seen attacks on their offices.