Serbian unions start general strike

The association of Serbian trade unions has begun a general strike over a controversial new labour law which freezes salaries at state-owned companies.

The association says there's been widespread support for their strike call, and other unions, including healthcare staff and Belgrade's public transport workers, have said they will join the walk-out which is planned to last for at least a week.

But correspondents say the strike hasn't been very visible so far, and ministers say all companies are working normally.

The unions want the government to withdraw the labour law from parliament.

The authorities have rejected the demand but say they are still open for talks. The unions have called for street protests on Wednesday to press their demands.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service