A last-ditch attempt on the part of separatist parties has brokered a deal for a new government in Catalonia. It came just in time, as the clock was ticking on new regional elections. The agreement forced incumbent President Mr Mas to step down, meeting the stone wall prerequisite imposed by the far-left CUP movement for providing its support. However he secured the job for a second-ranking member of his own party, thus keeping a firm grip on the political agenda.