There were celebrations in Barcelona after pro-independence parties won an absolute majority of seats in Catalonia’s 135-strong regional parliament.<br /><br /> With more than 90% of votes counted the main secessionist group “Together for Yes” were set to win 62 seats, while the communist pro-independence CUP will have another 10.<br /><br /> The separatists have opened up a significant gap between themselves and pro-unity parties. Second place “Citizens” are on course for 25 seats while Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s Popular Party is trailing with 11.<br /><br /> The separatists have vowed to declare independence unilaterally within 18 months – something which the central government in Madrid says it will block<br /><br /> While secession remains highly hypothetical, the strong pro-independence showing is a blow for Rajoy less than three months before nationwide elections.
