EU expects Spain to implement stability law quickly

"We also expect prompt implementation of the stability law that was recently approved by all the regions in Spain, and the regional dimension of public finances in Spain is particularly important," Commission spokesman Amadeu Altafaj told a regular briefing.

"Sound management of public accounts by the autonomous communities is indeed an important element for the success of the fiscal strategy of Spain."

Altafaj said the Commission was confident it would receive from Spain by the end of the month a robust, updated stability programme for 2013 and 2014.

He said it was up to the Spanish government to decide on the fiscal and structural measures it would take.

"It's the full responsibility of the Spanish authorities to design this policy mix."

Spain's fiscal stability law allows its central government to take action on the finances of autonomous regions that do not comply with strict deficit reduction rules.