Violence erupts in Poland as people queue for food

While students, farmers, and oil workers have begun strikes to protest Polish government policy, long lines for food sparked violence among shoppers. At least three people have been killed and dozens injured, representatives of Poland's 1.3 million shop clerks said as talks opened with the government to ensure their safety. The independent farmers' union has threatened to extend sit-in strikes if the talks fail.

Meanwhile, student strikes have shut down almost half of Poland's 105 higher education institutions to back demands for liberal education. In southeastern Poland, some 1,700 oil workers went on strike Nov. 24 to back demands for self-management, local Solidarity officials said.

Some help may be on the way, however, as the European Community agreed Tuesday to give Poland some $12 million in emergency aid to help alleviate worsening food shortages.