Greece has taken a crucial step towards a huge new bailout for the country’s stricken economy after its parliament passed a crucial second batch of reforms. The passage of the measures means that negotiations on an 86 billion euro European Union bailout can begin. The reforms include changes to Greek banking and an overhaul of the judiciary system.
Thousands demonstrated outside of parliament as the bill was debated, with protests briefly turning violent as petrol bombs were thrown at police. There had been fears of a rebellion by MPs but Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras was easily able to muster the support required. In total, the measures received 230 votes in favour and 63 against with five abstentions.
