Spain’s Sánchez to hold press conference amid speculation over early election – Europe live

PM may call a vote to address national housing crisis after parliament rejected two of his government’s emergency relief measuresGood morning and welcome to our Europe live blog. Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sánchez has announced he’ll hold a press conference shortly - there are expectations he’s about to call a snap election to address a national housing crisis, after parliament rejected two of his government’s emergency relief measures on Friday.That prompted tens of thousands to march in the street on Saturday, in the capital Madrid and other cities. Protesters were calling for action on rent prices and tenant protections. Spain’s next general election had been due next year, and Sánchez had previously said that he would complete a full four-year term. But the defeats in parliament have raised questions on how effective his government can be in getting through key legislation, and analysts say while there’s the risk with an early election, it might be worth striking while the iron’s hot. Elsewhere, up to 500 schools remain closed in France following nationwide protests against classroom conditions last week which also saw outbursts of violence and teachers attacked. Continue reading...