Foreign Office issues new travel safety warning for anyone heading to France
Potential violent protests could break out at any time, officials warned, due to hotly contested elections
The Foreign Office has issued a warning to Britons planning to travel to France this weekend, cautioning of potential 'unrest or violence' due to fiercely contested elections scheduled for July 7. Officials are urging travellers to exercise extra vigilance during their visit.
In a shocking incident last night, French government spokeswoman Prisca Thevenot was assaulted while on the campaign trail, mere days before a crucial legislative election, according to official reports.
Ms Thevenot, who is standing as a candidate for Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance Ensemble, was putting up electoral posters near Paris with her deputy and a party activist when they were attacked by a group, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal revealed on social media platform X.
Various media outlets have reported that although Ms Thevenot escaped injury and will continue her campaign, both her deputy and the party activist required hospital treatment. The nature of their injuries remains unclear at this time.
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The prosecutor's office has since launched an investigation into the assault, which involved a weapon being used against a public official. However, no information regarding the motive behind the attack has been disclosed.
The upcoming election, which sees hard right and left parties going head-to-head, could potentially incite violent scenes, officials warned.
The Foreign Office advice says: "Demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities. While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you're near areas where demonstrations are taking place, stay aware of your surroundings and move away if there are signs of disorder."
Additionally, the Foreign Office noted possible electoral turbulence: "Elections taking place in France on Sunday 7 July could make demonstrations more likely."
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UK nationals are being cautioned about potential travel disruptions in France due to strike actions as well.
In connection with this, the Foreign Office revealed: "Planned industrial action by port worker and air traffic control unions is expected to disrupt some ferry routes and flights across Alongside France, with some routes and flights diverted or cancelled."
Advice from the officials remains clear: "Check your operator's advice before travelling, including where you are taking connecting flights. Until September, possible industrial action may cause disruption on the Paris public transport system (RATP). Check the RATP website for live service updates."
