Hundreds of protests expected across France as authorities try to prevent further civil unrest – Europe live

Hundreds of thousands of people marched across France in largely peaceful protests supporting schoolchildren's demands for more teachers and building repairs. While the government estimated 400,000 participants, trade unions claimed double that figure. In Paris, 110,000 protesters also criticised the high cost of living and heavy policing. To prevent further civil unrest, France deployed 70,000 officers, while businesses in Paris boarded up shop-fronts. Similar protests are expected in Italy, Spain, Austria, Portugal, Albania and Ireland.