In Milan demonstrators threw raw meat through police lines, spattering the windows with blood. Other cities also saw protesters in Rome, Naples, Palermo and Turin voicing their opinion strongly.

The Italian government has promised to draw up a 'charter of principles' for multi-nationals companies. The charter to be drawn up with trade unions.

McDonalds has plans to open up a further 200 outlets which
concerned groups see as a threat to consumer choice.

McDonalds say they are employing 15,000 young people and have become hugely popular since opening up their first restaurant in Rome 15 years ago.

The protest was bolstered by a walk-out of 20 staff in a restaurant in Florence complaining of an 'intimidating'work climate.

Organisers of the protests have said they will intensify their campaign.