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The Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy has declared that ‘there was no independence referendum in Catalonia today’.

Rajoy delivered a televised address after violence broke out across the state as Catalonians held what the government called an ‘illegal’ vote for independence.

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‘At this time I can tell you, with full clarity, what you all know and what we have seen today,’ he said. ‘Today, we have not had a referendum for self-determination in Catalonia.

‘Today, all the Spaniards have seen that our state rule of law keeps its strength and reality, and restricts those who wish to subvert the state of law.’




Rajoy then praised the Spanish police for responding with ‘firmness and serenity’ to the referendum.

Spanish National Police clashes with pro-referendum supporters in Barcelona (Picture: AP)

Spanish National riot policemen evict a young woman during clashes (Picture: EPA/Alberto Estevez)

Spanish National riot policemen evict a man during clashes between the people gathered outside the Ramon Llull school and police forces during the ‘1-O Referendum’ in Barcelona (Picture: EPA/Alberto Estevez)

A man carries a ballot-box in a plastic bag into a polling station in Barcelona (Picture: AFP/Getty Images)

Spanish police push people with a shield outside a polling station in Barcelona (Picture: AFP/Getty Images)

At least 844 people were injured in clashes between voters and Spanish security forces today, with horrifying photos showing elderly people and children being forcefully dragged away from the ballots.

Firefighters also formed a human barrier between police and voters, in an attempt to protect those going to the ballots.

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‘We have seen behaviours and attitudes that are repugnant to any democrat, and never again shall be repeated,’ he continued, referring to those calling for Catalonian independence.

‘I want to be absolutely clear that those responsible for the events that have taken place today are the responsibility of those who have promoted the violation of legality and breach of convivance.’

He added that the referendum was ‘illegal’ and ‘disorganised logistically’.