A group of SYRIZA lawmakers submitted a proposed amendment on Monday to a law that applies stiffer sentences to those found guilty of robbery or breaching the peace when covering their faces.

The law was introduced several years ago following a spate of attacks in central Athens by self-styled anarchists wearing hoods and face masks.

However, the SYRIZA MPs have proposed that it be scrapped by attaching an amendment to a bill currently being debated by MPs at committee level. The draft law foresees that scrapping of maximum security prisons, amongst other things.

It is due to be debated and voted on by Parliament’s plenary next week. It is not clear whether the government will accept the proposal put forward by the SYRIZA MPs.