Spain 'will act' if Catalan independence is declared on Tuesday

The Spanish government will act if Catalan separatist
leaders declare independence on Tuesday, the
deputy prime minister has said.
Soraya Saenz de Santamaria told COPE radio that "if
they declare independence, there will be decisions to
restore the law and democracy".
Catalan regional president Carles Puigdemont will
address the Catalan parliament on Tuesday evening
following the disputed referendum won by the "Yes"
side.
The vote had been declared illegal in Madrid before it
even took place, and violent clashes erupted with
police at polling stations.
Initially it was thought separatist leaders could move
to declare independence as early as Monday night,
but the address has been pushed back a day.
Catalonia's High Court has asked the national police
to provide extra security at the court building in case
the declaration is made.
In a statement, it said the decision was made to
increase the security of the building and to
"guarantee its full and normal operation".
:: Analysis: Spanish media coverage of referendum
reflects polarised society
Separatist politicians have said the declaration of
independence will take place on Tuesday, although
some say the move will be "symbolic".
Ms Saenz de Santamaria called for members of the
Catalan government "who still respect democracy
and freedom to refrain from jumping into the void".
On Sunday, hundreds of thousands of pro-unionists
protested in Barcelona against the referendum.
Both sides have shown no sign of entering into talks
in what is the largest political crisis in Spain since it
became a democracy four decades ago.
France, which borders Catalonia, said on Monday it
would not recognise a unilateral declaration of
independence.
Spain Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has not ruled out
removing the Catalan government and calling fresh
regional elections.
He has also threatened to suspend the region's
existing autonomous status.
Catalan authorities say more than 90% who voted
backed independence, although opinion polls suggest
it is much closer.
Turn out for the referendum was just 43%.
Around 900 people were injured when officers used
rubber bullets and batons against voters at polling
stations.

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