In Greece, a general strike against tough austerity measures has begun, with the country's trade unions calling for mass mobilisation of protesters. The 24-hour action is expected to severely disrupt public services, including transport and hospitals. The organisers are demanding an end to cuts and tax rises, which have led to six straight years of recession. The government says the measures are badly needed to lead Greece out of a deep financial crisis. The cabinet of Prime Minister, Antonis Samaras, has said that the policies are part of continuing moves to ensure more bailout money from international creditors.