A 3,000-strong demonstration against draft legislation on public safety and cutbacks to public services turned violent, with protesters using sticks to attack police cars.<br /><br />Although backed by police unions, the draft legislation has been heavily criticised by opposition parties.<br /><br />It is seen as repressive and has been labelled an attempt by the government to silence demonstrations against its handling of the economic crisis.<br /><br />There is also anger over legislation aiming to impose heavy fines for offenses such as causing serious disturbances outside parliament.<br /><br />Penalties of up to €30,000 could be set for misdemeanors such as insulting the state, or burning the Spanish flag.<br /><br />Despite protests, the bill is likely to be approved by parliament as the ruling political party has an absolute majority in both chambers.
