France’s state rail operator and major European transport player
The Office of Rail and Road has approved Virgin Trains to operate up to 20 daily return services through the Channel Tunnel from 1 October 2030 to 31 December 2040, joining Eurostar on a route long monopolised by the French operator SNCF. Regulators say more work remains, including stock, safety approvals and cross-border access.
A passenger train derailed near Cléon, south of Rouen, France, while traveling from Rouen to Caen. About 180 passengers were on board; 44 have been injured, including an 18-year-old in critical condition. Firefighters and emergency teams are on the scene as investigations begin into the cause.
Protests across France have resumed, focusing on school conditions, university places, and the cost of living. By Nov. 5, authorities report around 41 high schools blockaded, with thousands affected earlier in the month. Government offers include capping class sizes and funding to renovate schools, but student leaders say more is needed as demonstrations expand.
Protests across major French cities have intensified as unions press for higher wages and tax reforms to counter rising living costs, with hundreds of thousands expected to join marches nationwide. Police deployment remains high amid clashes in some cities, while the government faces growing pressure ahead of elections.
France sees ongoing protests against the rising cost of living as presidential elections approach. Demonstrations across major cities have continued, with clashes in Paris and Lyon. Police deploy around 70,000 personnel; unions report hundreds of thousands taking part, while authorities cite lower turnout than last week.