Athens: The Greek parliament on Saturday authorised the government to proceed with last minute negotiations on its proposal for a debt deal with its creditors. The proposal was passed by the plenum with 251 votes in favour versus 32 against with 291 deputies participating in the roll call vote in the 300-member strong assembly. Eight MPs abstained.

A man passes by an anti-austerity banner reading 'No' in front of the Greek parliament in Athens. —Agencies