pedro

Controversial bill added to agenda at request of European People's Party

Alberto Núñez Feijóo criticizes pardons to Catalans involved in independence push

500 protesters gathered outside chamber during Socialist leader's speech

It was expected that parties backing Pedro Sánchez's PM bid, such as Junts and Esquerra, would also sign the text

Bill could still face political and legal obstacles before coming into effect

Simultaneous demonstrations in Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona, Lleida, and in Madrid

Overnight negotiations focused on the scope of the amnesty law

Socialists amid post-election talks agree with Esquerra on pardoning those related to 2017 independence vote, while Junts' support still under debate

Party also supports negotiations with Catalan pro-independence groups

3,800 people protest proposed bill in Spanish capital, and 350 people demonstrate in Barcelona

Last serving president to meet a pontiff was Jordi Pujol in 1981

87% approve pacts with left-wing Sumar and pro-independence Esquerra, as talks with Puigdemont party still underway

Left-wing party will back Pedro Sánchez's PM bid after breakthrough deal 

Committees of the Defense of the Republic members could be pardoned under a future Catalan amnesty bill