France holds new strikes and protests as unions demand immediate answers
Five of France's unions join a wave of strikes and protests in a national day of action.
This school protester in Paris called on the government to "tax the rich, not our futures" on Thursday
Protests are taking place across France after five unions launched a national day of strike action, joining high school students and demonstrators criticising the rising cost of living.
More than 250,000 people had taken to the streets in almost 70 towns and cities by 13:00 (12:00 GMT) on Thursday, and that was "just the start", said Sophie Binet of the CGT union.
A coalition of unions has urged workers, pensioners and young people to join Thursday's day of strikes to intensify pressure on the government. In particular they are seeking a rise in the minimum wage, or Smic, which is currently €12.31 (£10) an hour.