Strike action over labour law reforms gripped France yesterday, with oil refineries, nuclear power stations and transport hubs disrupted. Riot police battled protesters in Paris and other cities, making 77 arrests, while 15 officers were injured and cars and shops were vandalised.
Prime Minister Manuel Valls insists the reforms will not be withdrawn but has suggested they could be modified. Officials say 1 lakh 53 thousands people took part across France though union leaders put the number at nearly twice that. France is due to host the Euro 2016 football championships next month.