French PM backs localised curfews after weekend riots
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 17:38 · Archive
France's government has asked local authorities to impose curfews after riots and looting during anti-government protests.
France's central government has asked some local authorities to impose curfews after a weekend of riots and looting that erupted during anti-government protests. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu ruled out a blanket curfew in Paris but said localised and partial curfews were more appropriate for now. He declared his 'determination to restore order is absolute'. The Socialist mayor of central Paris, Ariel Weil, said he favoured a curfew, while Marseille banned gatherings and demonstrations.
Lecornu blamed 'far-left' groups for some of France's worst unrest in years, saying there was 'a far-left movement that wants to cause profound unrest in the country in the run-up to the presidential election'. Presidential candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon of La France Insoumise challenged him to provide evidence, saying 'Otherwise, he should apologise, keep quiet and stop fanning the flames of unrest'.
The Federation of Trade and Retail said almost 3,000 shops had been affected over the weekend. The weekend violence followed weeks of student demonstrations, occurring six months ahead of France's next presidential election and highlighting pressures from a weak economy and surging debt. French unions called for a new round of strikes and rallies on 5 November.
How it is being reported
- French PM urges curfews in some areas after riotsFrench Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has backed localised curfews after serious riots on the fringes of protests in France.The West Australian · 19 Oct, 17:18
- French PM urges curfews in some areas after riotsFrench Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has backed localised curfews after serious riots on the fringes of protests in France.Perth Now · 19 Oct, 17:18
In this story: Sebastien Lecornu · Jean-Luc Melenchon · Ariel Weil · France · Paris · Marseille · La France Insoumise
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