Brits travelling to France have been warned to “avoid demonstrations” as protests erupt across the country. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice after protests broke out in Paris and elsewhere.
Strike action has been taking place in response to the Government's plan to raise France’s retirement age from 62 to 64. However, some of these protests have turned violent with rubbish bins being set on fire in Paris, while the door of Bordeaux City Hall was destroyed by fire on Thursday night.
More than 450 protestors were arrested in Paris on Thursday and interior minister Gerald Darmanin said 441 police officers and gendarmes were hurt during the marches. Meanwhile the upcoming visit of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla has been postponed due to the unrest.
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The FCDO warned UK travellers that more strikes are planned for Tuesday March 28, and that they should keep updated on the situation by checking the media, advice from tour operators and local authorities.
It said: “Since mid-March there have been spontaneous protests in central Paris and elsewhere in France. Protests are likely to take place and could occur with little notice. Some protests have turned violent. The protests may lead to disruptions to road travel.
“There is also ongoing strike action affecting multiple sectors including transport networks. Coordinated strike action and large-scale demonstrations are next planned for Tuesday 28 March. Industrial action may start the evening before the strike day and run for several days.
“You should monitor the media, check the latest advice with operators before travelling, avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”
Check the FCDO's website for the latest guidance here.
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