France protests: Paris shopkeepers stock weapons as Macron braces for chaos
Shopkeepers prepare for rallies
Paris shopkeepers have bought self-defence weapons as they prepare for demonstrations planned this weekend. Gun shops in the French capital told The Times they had seen increased demand for pepper-gel products from shopkeepers concerned about looting.
Macron to meet students
Macron is expected to meet high school unions on Friday at the presidential palace. The meeting is scheduled for 3pm and is intended to address students’ concerns and demands behind the recent unrest. The meeting comes as authorities anticipate further demonstrations over the weekend.
Restrictions on demonstrations
Macron said on Thursday that demonstrations not organised by unions would be banned in the coming days. Union-organised events would be allowed, but authorities could divert them to alternative routes to protect businesses.
Macron blamed ultra-left groups and vandals for the previous weekend’s unrest. Paris was also to extend its nighttime curfew until Monday, although major events were still planned for the weekend.
Key points
- Paris shopkeepers have stocked up on self-defence weapons before weekend demonstrations.
- Macron is expected to meet high school unions on Friday at 3pm.
- Macron said demonstrations not organised by unions would be banned.
- Paris was to extend its nighttime curfew until Monday.