Chirac promises action as violence spreads

FRENCH President Jacques Chirac yesterday promised arrests, trials and punishment for those sowing “violence or fear” across the country.

This follows the urban unrest that has triggered attacks on vehicles, nursery schools and other targets hit central Paris for the first time.

Youths set ablaze nearly 1,300 vehicles and torched businesses, schools and symbols of French authority, including post offices and provincial police stations over the weekend.