The Catalan leader, Artur Mas, formally called a November referendum on independence yesterday, in a show of defiance that puts the wealthy northeast region of Spain on a collision course with the central government in Madrid.
Mas' signature on a decree allowing the vote to go forward came one week after the Catalan Parliament passed a law paving the way for non-binding consultations in the region.
As the solemn signing ceremony took place yesterday morning, government officials crowded around the document, excitedly snapping photographs on their mobile phones.
The central government says any regional vote on independence would be illegal, pointing out that the country's 1978 constitution means major questions must be put to all Spaniards and that only they can call a referendum.
