Spanish opposition step up Sánchez attacks as PM decides on his future

PP leader accuses prime minister of navel-gazing, while Sanchez's supporters rally in Madrid

Spanish opposition parties have stepped up their attacks on the socialist prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, as he prepares to announce whether he will resign because of what he describes as a harassment and bullying operation" being waged against him and his wife by his political and media enemies.

Sanchez shocked Spain on Wednesday night when he published a letter announcing that he would abandon his public duties for five days while he weighed up whether to step down, adding that he would reveal his decision on Monday.