NEWS

Thousands protest in Greece over planned new tax

Thousands of anti-austerity protesters clogged the Greek capital’s streets to demonstrate against government plans to introduce a new property tax as bailout lenders prepare to conduct another inspection next week.

The anger is being felt across Greek society, with retirees, disabled groups, shipyard workers and high school teachers among those expected to take part in Thursday’s protests.

Parliament is due to vote next week on proposals to replace an emergency property tax included on electricity bills with a permanent levy, breaking a pledge made last year by the conservative-led coalition government.

More than 50 conservative lawmakers are demanding changes to proposals, arguing they unfairly burden their rural constituents.

The government is also planning new cuts to state benefits and the public workforce.[AP]

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