Spain's squatter problem has surged to worrying new levels - with 45 properties being taken over each day. Spain's conservative opposition has accused the country's prime minister, Pedro Sanchez , of "handing over keys of the housing market to squatters" amid an ongoing row over anti-squatting laws.

Alicia Garcia, spokesperson for the Partido Popular (PP), said the illegal occupation of uninhabited buildings had risen by nearly 55% since Sanchez came to power.

She said: "45 homes occupied every day and 45 families left unprotected. In the PP, we are clear about this. Spain needs security, justice and respect. A home is not booty, it is a home, and a home must always be protected.

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