NEWS
Nationwide Strike - A nationwide public sector strike on Thursday, the 5th of December, will disrupt schools, trains, and administrative services across France, with protests planned in major cities. Seven unions are opposing government measures like reduced sick leave benefits, while some sectors, such as rail workers, plan extended strikes starting on the 11th of December. Majority union predicts 65% strikes in primary schools. Public services like schools, municipal amenities, and energy providers will experience closures and delays, though hospitals remain unaffected.
Motion of No Confindence Against Michel Barnier - French Prime Minister Michel Barnier invoked Article 49-3 to force through a social security funding bill, triggering backlash and motions of no confidence. The far-right Rassemblement National (RN) and left-wing parties expressed outrage, while political rivals criticized RN's credibility. Bernier’s position is at risk, with a confidence vote likely to decide his fate this week.
30kgs of Drugs Seized - Police have seized 30kg of drugs, five Kalashnikov rifles, and 500 rounds of ammunition in an anti-drug operation on the 27th of November in Avignon. A 26-year-old suspect, linked to nationwide drug and arms trafficking, was arrested and placed in pre-trial detention.
PAZ Critises Piegon-Detterent Nets - An animal rights group, PAZ, is criticising pigeon-deterrent nets, claiming they trap and kill birds cruelly in Cagnes-sur-Mer, Alpes-Maritimes. While the city acknowledges the deteriorated state of the nets and is considering replacements or alternative solutions, the association advocates for ethical options like contraceptive dovecotes or oral contraceptives. Discussions are ongoing to find a more sustainable and humane resolution.
Garbage Trucks Use AI - A garbage truck equipped with AI-powered cameras now identifies sorting errors in real time, aiding waste collection efficiency in Grasse, Alpes-Maritimes. The system geolocates mistakes, enabling targeted education efforts while protecting workers from hazardous materials. Additionally, Grasse is transitioning its fleet to greener vehicles, including biofuel and fully electric options, to reduce environmental impact.
Prince Albert II Test-Drove the Pioneer 25 - Prince Albert II of Monaco test-drove the Pioneer 25, a hydrogen-powered racing prototype, in the streets of Monaco, showcasing zero-emission technology ahead of the Extreme H Championship launching in 2025. The event, part of the Monaco Hydrogen Forum, highlighted hydrogen's potential as a clean mobility solution. Extreme H aims to blend innovation and sustainability, with races in extreme terrains and a focus on gender parity in its pilot teams.
BUSINESS
A Delaware judge upheld a decision rejecting Elon Musk’s $56 billion Tesla pay package, citing undue influence on the board and unfair terms despite shareholder approval. Tesla plans to appeal, while Musk criticized the ruling, arguing shareholders should control decisions. Observers noted the case underscores conflict-of-interest laws, with Tesla potentially revisiting the package in Texas after its legal relocation.
And - Jaguar unveiled its new electric concept car, dividing opinions over its bold design and high price point, with critics calling it impractical and out of touch for a shrinking market. The brand, transitioning to electric-only by 2026, aims for reinvention amidst declining sales, but analysts question whether its luxury focus and £100,000+ pricing strategy will succeed. While some see it as a brave shift, others argue it risks alienating a broader customer base and repeating past mistakes.
SPORTS
Cricket - A cap worn by Australian cricket legend Don Bradman has sold for 479,700 Australian dollars (£245,000) at an auction in Sydney.
Rugby Union - American Olympic bronze medallist Ilona Maher has signed for Bristol Bears for the rest of the Premiership Women's Rugby season.
Tennis - Former Wimbledon champion Neale Fraser has died aged 91. The Australian won the Wimbledon singles title in 1960 as well as the US National Championships in 1959 and 1960, when tennis was still an amateur sport. He also claimed 11 men's doubles and five mixed doubles Slam titles and became the men's singles world number one in 1959.
WEATHER
Mostly sunny with strongs winds in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Highs of 13 degrees in Marseille, 16 in Nice and Toulon, and 17 degrees in Cannes and Saint-Tropez.
Tonight, bit cloudy with lows of 8 degrees.
Outlook for tomorrow, bright and clear with highs of 16 degrees.
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French police have raided the headquarters of the far-right National Rally party as part of an inquiry into its campaign finances...
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