ELECTIONS 2011

Rubalcaba warns of harsh measures PP has in store

Zapatero finally joins Socialist candidate on campaign trail in Málaga

As the election campaign enters its final stages, the Socialist Party is focusing on convincing the public that Popular Party (PP) leader Mariano Rajoy would introduce harsh cuts that he has not yet revealed should he win Sunday's vote.

"Mr Rajoy, you don't say what you have in your head because if you did, the people are going stop you and won't vote for you," said Socialist prime-ministerial candidate Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba at a rally in Almería on Wednesday.

Rubalcaba pointed to remarks made by the PP regional premier of Castilla-La Mancha, Dolores de Cospedal, who said that when her party is in power and takes "the measures it has to take, the people will take to the streets." He also cited Madrid premier Esperanza Aguirre's proposal for some pensioners to pay for medication, according to their income.

More information
PP warns cutbacks will ignite demonstrations
Polls predict trouncing for Socialists
Rubalcaba seeks union support against further spending cuts
Rajoy doubts on state aid for sick raises Sociaists' ire

Rubalcaba ended the day at a major rally in Málaga where he appeared with several generations of PSOE leaders, including - for the only time this campaign - outgoing Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero.

Patxi López, José Antonio Griñán, Pérez Rubalcaba, Rodríguez Zapatero, Trinidad Jiménez and Elena Valenciano at the rally in Málaga.
Patxi López, José Antonio Griñán, Pérez Rubalcaba, Rodríguez Zapatero, Trinidad Jiménez and Elena Valenciano at the rally in Málaga.JULIÁN ROJAS
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