British broadsheet calls Madrid's 'civic conduct' laws 'the biggest crackdown since Franco'
Saturday, October 12, 2013 @ 1:24 PM
MADRID city council's latest local bye-laws covering 'antisocial behaviour' and threatening massive fines for those who break the rules is 'the biggest crackdown since Franco', according to British broadsheet The Independent.
In its article Buskers, pimps and plant-lovers beware, the reporter slams and sends up some of the rules he considers most ludicrous, such as four-figure fines for throwing cigarette butts or chewing gum onto the ground, 'walking bothersome dogs' and using benches for 'anything other than sitting on'.
Juggling, feeding animals of any description – from stray cats to one's own dog whilst walking – staging games or competitions in the street or shaking out rugs are banned, and buskers have to take and pass an exam in order to obtain a free licence.
If buskers fail their music exam, they are not allowed to practise in the street.
Read more at thinkSPAIN.com