Catalan separatists nominate new president

Independence parties in Catalonia nominated Quim Torra, a controversial political activist, for the regional presidency in a final effort to restore a government and avoid fresh elections.

Mr Torra, who is expected to be inaugurated on Monday, has vowed to restore self-governance to Catalonia.

The politician was hand-picked by the deposed former president, Carles Puigdemont, who is seen by secessionists as the rightful leader, but is currently in Germany facing extradition proceedings for rebellion.