The UK Government has issued fresh advice to people travelling to France after large-scale riots and protests have broken out in the country. The grandmother of 17-year-old Nahel M, whose fatal shooting by police sparked nights of rioting, has publicly called for calm.
Around 40 officers were injured, 577 vehicles torched, 74 buildings set on fire and 871 fires lit in streets and other public spaces on Saturday night, the ministry said. Nahel M's grandmother said: "I say this to those who are rioting: do not smash windows, attack schools and buses. Stop. It’s mothers who take those buses."
The rioters, mostly minors, were "using Nahel as an excuse", she said. "We want things to calm down," she added
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Now, UK ministers have shared new advice to holidaymakers, declaring it's still safe to visit the country but people should avoid cities at night. A Home Office spokesperson said: "Since 27 June, riots have taken place across France.
"Many have turned violent. Shops, public buildings and parked cars have been targeted.
"There may be disruptions to road travel and local transport provision may be reduced. Some local authorities may impose curfews.
"Locations and timing of riots are unpredictable. You should monitor the media, avoid areas where riots are taking place, check the latest advice with operators when travelling and follow the advice of the authorities.
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"French authorities have banned a rally by groups opposed to the government in Iran planned for July 1 in Paris, due to concerns about security risks; connected events are reported to still be going ahead, however, including in the suburb of Auvers-sur-Oise. A demonstration by the same group in Paris in June 2018 was the target of an attempted bomb attack.
"British nationals should reconsider any plans to attend such meetings, and if you do, be aware of your surroundings at all times, and move away quickly from disturbances.
"It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance."
Around 17 million British nationals visit France every year. Most visits are trouble-free.
For emergency services in France, call:
- 112 (all services)
- 15 (medical services)
- 17 (police)
- 18 (fire services)
Find out more here.
