Nationwide strike under way in France against President’s plans to raise retirement age from 62 to 64

A nationwide strike is under way in France in a second wave of protests against President Emmanuel Macron’s plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Eight big unions are taking part in the strike. Protests are taking place across France, after a first day of action attracted more than a million people. Half the country’s teachers were reported to have joined the strike.

Opinion polls show most French people oppose the reform, but President Macron intends to stand his ground. On Monday, he said the reform was vital to ensure the viability of the pension system.