Greek opposition deputy to back austerity bill

[June 29, 2011]  ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- A deputy with the opposition conservatives says she will break with her party's line and back a crucial government austerity bill that has to be passed for the country to get crucial bailout funds and avoid a devastating default on its debts.

Shortly before Wednesday's vote, conservative deputy Elsa Papadimitriou said she will back the unpopular bill, boosting chances the measures will be passed. Outside Parliament, clashes were breaking out between riot police and anti-austerity protestors.

The bill, which involves euro28 billion ($40 billion) worth of spending cuts and tax increases over five years, must be passed by Parliament if international creditors are to release the next euro12 billion ($17 billion) installment of the country's bailout fund.

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THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE.
AP's earlier story is below.

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ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- Clashes have broken out between riot police and protesters outside the Greek Parliament where deputies are about to vote on a crucial austerity bill.

Riot police fired volleys of tear gas to push back protesters trying to overturn barriers, while the demonstrators pelted police with bottles and trash.

Greek deputies are set to back more austerity measures Wednesday as thousands of protesters vented their anger against a bill that has to be passed for the country to get crucial bailout funds and avoid a devastating default on its debts.

[Associated Press]

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