France protests – live: Over 40 arrests in Paris as tens of thousands to rally nationwide

France protests – live: Forty people arrested in Paris as police fire tear gas at protesters President Emmanuel Macron has appealed for ‘calm’ as police deploy tear gas and riot gear - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Already a member? Log in Tens of thousands of protesters are expected at demonstrations across France over the cost of living and rising fuel prices. Around 40 people have been arrested in Paris “primarily for carrying weapons or prohibited protective gear”, with police warning that enhanced checks would be in place. A large police presence was visible in central Paris, especially near landmarks such as the Avenue des Champs-Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe, with police firing tear gas at protesters who had climbed on monuments. In Marseille, trash cans have been set alight and clashes are ongoing with police, with president Emmanuel Macron appealing for “calm” and calling on demonstrators to show "respect for people and property". A major demonstration is scheduled in Paris for 14:00 local time (13:00 BST); with reports estimating that around 40,000 people could descend upon the city. The protests began last month at high schools in Paris' poor northern suburbs, where anger over teacher absences and shabby facilities quickly morphed into a nationwide movement against inequality, weak public spending and falling standards. Paris police make 40 arrests Police in Paris say they had already made 40 arrests by 09:30 local time (08:30 BST). In an update on X, they said these were "primarily for carrying weapons or prohibited protective gear”. The streets of Paris could see as many as 40,000 people turn out to demonstrate, with widespread protests also taking place across the rest of the country. Police say "enhanced checks" are being carried out "to prevent risks and ensure everyone's safety". Widespread protests take place across France Demonstrations have began across France on Saturday in what is expected to become a major nationwide protest against high prices and the fraying of a model intended to provide a basic level of opportunity and social security. The protests began last month at high schools in Paris' poor northern suburbs, where anger over teacher absences and shabby facilities quickly morphed into a nationwide movement against inequality, weak public spending and falling standards. A large police presence was visible in central Paris, especially near landmarks such as the Avenue des Champs-Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe, which were excluded from the routes of the two official demonstrations. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments [Image text:] J'AIMES REGLES AUBAGNEY TOULON PRIVEERETSERVIR MUTILER GAZER LE VRAI