The continuing rising prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages have been cited as the main reason for the rise in annual inflation, which in May stood at 1.7%. The CPI rose by 0.2% in April and by 0.3% in May.
Spain in trouble over EHIC
The European Commission is launching legal action against Spain over the refusal of some hospitals to recognise the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Brussels proposes 6.3% deficit target for 2013
The European Commission has proposed raising Spain’s net deficit target to 6.3% for this year – Prime Minister wanted 6.3% and the current target is 4.5% – and Spain has been given a two year extension to get the deficit down to the 3% threshold laid down by the Pact for Growth. But it will come at a cost.
New mortgages continue in decline
The number of new mortgages signed during the first quarter of 2013 fell by 34.1% compared to last year with 16,270 transactions being completed.
Bars and Spanish culture
According to a study by the Coca Cola company, there are 350,000 catering establishments in Spain, which means one bar for every 132 inhabitants. The study analyses the relationship between the Spanish and ‘the bar’.
More proposed rail closures
The Ministry of Public Works is proposing to close 48 state-run rail routes and reduce services by an average of 32% on 127 others in order to save €86.5 million a year.
The new Coast Law could benefit half a million people
The government’s new Coast Law will benefit over half a million people who own homes, hotels, beach bars and other businesses right on the beachfront.
Cooler temperatures expected
According to the meteorological office, cloud, rain and cooler temperatures will return to much of the peninsular tomorrow, Tuesday May 14th, and will continue through the weekend before stabilising once more.
Marijuana plantations along the Costa del Sol
Police have dismantled a network specialising in the cultivation and trafficking of marijuana on a large scale between Spain and Holland, arresting 21 people so far and uncovering 15 marijuana plantations in Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Mijas, Coin, Alhaurin de la Torre and Vélez-Málaga.
Spain to get extra an two years to get its finances in order
The latest macroeconomic forecasts for Spain released by the European Commission are slightly more negative than its previous predictions and, as a result, Brussels appears willing to give Spain another two years to get its finances in order and bring its budget deficit back within the European Union ceiling of 3 percent of GDP.