King and Queen Consort's visit to Paris could be disrupted by violent protests over retirement age
French unions have called for more nationwide protests that will coincide with the royal visit to the country, due to take place on Sunday.
Friday 24 March 2023 10:46, UK
The first state visit of the King's reign could be disrupted by fierce protests in France over a plan to raise the retirement age.
There has been a significant development in this story - the King and Queen Consort's visit has been postponed
Unions have called for more demonstrations to coincide with the King and Queen Consort's visit to Paris on Sunday.
A banquet at the Palace of Versailles, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron, could be moved or even cancelled, according to local reports.
It is understood the trip's plans have been under review for a few days due to large protests in the French capital.
Security concerns could mean the royals' contact with the public is reduced and the impact of the visit diminished.
However, French authorities have said they are ready to welcome His Majesty, despite the protests.
Interior minister Gerald Darmanin said: "We are extremely focused. We are ready to welcome him in excellent conditions."
A Buckingham Palace source had said earlier this week that the protests could impact the logistics of the visit.
Large amounts of uncollected rubbish on the streets of Paris could also be embarrassing for Mr Macron and city officials.
The CGT union said this week that its members at the institution that provides red carpets, furniture and flags for public buildings would snub Sunday's reception for the King.
However, the president's office said other workers would make the necessary arrangements.
The royals are due to stay in France until 29 March, also visiting the Bordeaux area - where the door of the city's town hall was set on fire during Thursday's protests.
Mr Darmanin said on Thursday night that security "poses no problem" for the King's visit and he would be "welcomed and welcomed well".
The unions' announcement of action at the weekend follows a record turnout in Paris against the bill to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64.
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Authorities say 119,000 people tuned out - believed to be the biggest demonstration in the capital in the current wave of protests.
The vast majority were peaceful, but police used tear gas to disperse rioters who threw fireworks, petrol bombs and other objects at officers.
At least two fast food restaurants, a supermarket and a bank were attacked.
Across France, more than a million people are said to have joined marches after Mr Macron forced through the law without a vote.
Protests in cities such as Lyon, Nantes, and Rennes also saw outbreaks of violence.
In Lorient, in western France, the courtyard of a police station was set alight and windows smashed, while an administrative building was also attacked.
Strikes linked to the pension changes have also disrupted travel across the country, with demonstrations blocking train stations, major city roads, ports and Paris's Charles de Gaulle Airport.