l Spain has approved a new voluntary code of conduct for banks which aims to help poor homeowners settle their debts and reduce a wave of evictions brought on by the economic crisis.
Under the new guidelines, mortgage debts can be restructured for a period of up to 40 years and surrendering a property as payment may be permitted as a way of freeing a homeowner from their debt in some cases.
Spanish banks currently seize the homes of those who default on their mortgages.