Lecornu favors localized curfews after weekend violence

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said Monday, October 19, that he could impose a state of emergency if necessary after a weekend of violence during demonstrations over living costs, public services and school conditions. He said localized curfews appeared better suited to the situation and had asked regional authorities to impose them that evening, particularly to protect businesses. Lecornu spoke after a crisis meeting as officials assessed unrest that included looting, fires and attacks on public buildings and police. The demonstrations were largely peaceful, but some groups engaged in violence. An estimated 550,000 to 800,000 people took to the streets across France over the weekend, according to one reported estimate; another account said more than half a million demonstrated on Saturday. A state of emergency would give authorities temporary powers beyond ordinary policing, which can include curfews, movement restrictions and bans on public demonstrations. Lecornu said a map of proposed curfew zones was expected later Monday, after regional authorities consulted mayors. The supplied information does not establish which areas would be covered or what restrictions...