Basque leader addresses Spain

The Basque leader explains why he wants his country to be free from Spain:

The leader of the Basque regional government has addressed the Spanish parliament in Madrid, proposing more independence for his homeland.

Juan Jose Ibarretxe opened his speech in the Basque language, before repeating it in Spanish.

His proposals call for a separate judiciary, financial system and distinct citizenship for people with Basque ancestry.

But the autonomy plan is expected to be overwhelmingly rejected when MPs vote.

Mr Ibarretxe began his address in Basque, saying: "In representation of the Basque parliament, I have come to the Spanish parliament to defend the right of the Basque people to decide their future."