Mass protests and riots sweep Europe Hundreds of thousands marched in 12 countries over rising costs and dissatisfaction with policies. France: union sources claim 800,000 participants; Police report half of that. 70,000 security personnel have been deployed. Italy: Clashes with the police in Milan, Rome, Turin. Albania: Tirana protesters burned the entrance of the Ministry of Agriculture, attacked the parliament with stones and fireworks. The police used tear gas and water cannons. Spain: 25,000 marched in Madrid for pension reforms. Belgium and Portugal: clashes during demonstrations against austerity and housing. Serbia: Student protest continues for political change. Actions also took place in Germany, Austria, Greece, Ireland, Holland.