Spanish government tightens financial control over Catalonia

The Spanish government has extended control over Catalonia’s spending. Under Article 155, through which the Spanish government took over Catalonia’s self-rule, Madrid has set new financial controls that replace those implemented in September to control Catalonia’s spending. From now on, the auditor must specify that no “unlawful activity” is being financed.  

From now on, the auditor must provide, at least once a month, a list identifying monthly payments to basic service providers. In addition, any indebtedness operation of the Catalan government or its public bodies must have the authorization of the Spanish Council of Ministers and any individual or legal entity that delivers goods or services to the Catalan executive will have to attach a statement of responsibility ensuring that those goods or services are not related to the financing of unlawful activities.