Transport strike hits Greek capital

A public transport strike was causing traffic hold-ups in Athens today as workers protested at government austerity measures meant to ensure that Greece qualifies for bailout loans to prevent it from defaulting on its debts.

Today's strike is the latest in a series of labour actions as the government struggles to persuade its international debt inspectors to sign off an 8 billion euro (£6.9 billion) instalment in its 110 billion euro (£94.5 billion) bailout package from other eurozone countries and the International Monetary Fund.

Municipal workers have also been on strike, leaving rubbish uncollected on many streets of Athens.

A nationwide general strike is set for October 19.