Tayyip Erdogan (file photo)

Turkey's main opposition party has called for a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for allegedly encouraging police to use excessive force against May Day protesters.

The Republican People's Party accuses Mr. Erdogan of violating workers' rights and endangering public order.

Analysts, however, say the motion is not likely to pass because Mr. Erdogan's Justice and Development party holds a majority in parliament.

On May 1, Turkish police used water cannon, tear gas and clubs against protesters trying to reach Istanbul's Taksim Square to protest government plans to reform social security -- in defiance of a ban on gatherings in the square.

Some protesters stoned police and were reportedly injured in street battles as more than 400 were arrested.

The European Union has called for an investigation into the labor unrest.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.