**Hundreds of textile workers have clashed with riot police in Cairo after a demonstration against the privatisation of a factory.**The Tanta Linen, Flax and Oil company was sold off by the government four years ago.
Workers who say their pay and conditions have suffered and have held a series of strikes.
And on Wednesday demonstrators took to the streets outside the Cabinet Office in central Cairo and police responded.
Trade unions have emerged as a serious force in Egyptian politics in recent years, correspondents say.
But their move to take their demonstration to the streets of Cairo, near the seat of government, is seen as an unusual move.
Egypt has strong laws against public demonstrations, and riot police moved in to break up the sit-in.