Catalonia Spain ultimatum over independence push passes

Catalonia Spain ultimatum over independence push passes Catalonia: Spain ultimatum over independence push passes A final deadline for Catalonia to drop a secession bid has passed, with Spain warning it will suspend the region's autonomy. Catalonia's leader Carles Puigdemont was given until 10:00 local time (08:00 GMT) to clarify his position. After a referendum on 1 October, he signed an independence declaration but then suspended it, asking for dialogue. Reports suggest he will press ahead on independence if Madrid moves to take direct control. There are fears that this may lead to civil unrest in Catalonia.