French students urge fresh protests

FRENCH union and student leaders, emboldened by a million-strong march and nationwide strike, yesterday called for a new day of action next Tuesday to increase pressure on the government to withdraw a contested new job contract for youths.

But the government also toughened its stance, with the education ministry reportedly ordering second-level school administrators to move against students who have been blocking access to colleges.

One possible way out of the crisis could come today, with an expected decision by the Constitutional Council on whether the jobs contract violates international employment codes.