ROME, Dec. 11 (UPI) -- Protests of the so-called "Pitchfork Movement" spread across Italy Wednesday as demonstrations against tax hikes driven by austerity measures gained ground.
Protest leaders threatened a large-scale demonstration in Rome if members of parliament did not withhold their votes from a confidence measure, ANSA reported.
In the third day of anti-government demonstrations, protesters in Turin blocked traffic while other protests around the city shut down food markets and other businesses.
Protesters in Genoa occupied the central square, while a large crowd gathered outside an office of the national tax collection agency in nearby Savona.
In Bisceglie, in southern Italy, protesters occupied the train station, slowing passenger and freight service.
Ahead of the confidence vote, Premier Enrico Letta called for elected officials to be respected.
"This republican Parliament and our offices demand respect in such bitter times," Letta said.
Beppe Grillo, leader of the Five-Star Movement, encouraged police to no longer protect politicians, but Letta said the "loyalty" of the police to upholding Italian democracy was "unquestionable."
Police at a recent protest took off their helmets, which was interpreted as an expression of solidarity with protesters. Police chiefs denied that, saying officers routinely removed their helmets as a way of ensuring the situation had calmed.
