France warns of crippling strikes

THE FRENCH government yesterday warned that protracted public sector strikes would have dramatic consequences for the French economy as Paris commuters faced yet another day of scant subway and train services and airlines cancelled flights.

The second general walkout by state employees in less than a month embarrassed the government as it hosted leaders from the world’s wealthiest nations in the Alpine town of Evian.

Demonstrations were planned in more than 100 French towns and cities to demand the government backs down from plans to overhaul France’s overburdened retirement system.