Athens burns in riots: Protests explode as Greek MPs debate EU's call for £25bn in cuts

David Williams and Christine Pirovolakis Daily Mail 06/28/2011 18:27

Riot police fought running battles with hooded youths in Athens yesterday as tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets against tough austerity measures. Parts of the Greek capital were ablaze and dozens were injured as youths hurled rocks, bricks and petrol bombs at police, who responded with baton charges and tear gas.

Last night protesters, taking part in a two-day national strike, were on the streets again.

Pillars of fire: A fire during a 48-hour general strike, the first in the modern history of Greece, in Athens

Aflame: Riot police defend their position beside a burning van

On fire: Both a riot policeman and protester have to take swift action after catching light in Athens

Debt-ridden: Riot police run from the flames after protesters through petrol bombs near the Syntagma Square

Hundreds of terrified tourists ran for safety from cafes and restaurants as youths, many wearing gas masks and scarves covering their faces, rampaged in front of luxury hotels in Syntagma Square.

Five thousand police patrolled the streets, but shops, banks, trucks and bins were set on fire.

The rioting came as the Greek parliament debated a £25billion austerity package demanded by the European Union.

Parliament is due to vote today and tomorrow on spending cuts, tax increases and privatisations agreed as part of a massive bailout – the second granted to Greece – aimed at averting the eurozone’s first debt default.