The Latest: Rajoy: elections to bring 'new era' to Catalonia
MADRID (AP) — The Latest on the political crisis in Catalonia (all times local):
10:10 a.m.
Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy says next month's elections in Catalonia should open "a new political era" in the northeastern region with the return to normality and respect for the country's laws.
The conservative leader has defended his government's imposed controls in the northeastern region in the wake of an independence bid by separatist politicians.
Rajoy sacked the separatist Catalan authorities, who are facing possible rebellion charges, dissolved the regional government and has called a snap regional election for Dec. 21.