France, March 30 -- Speaking on Monday, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot stressed that while the French state would "do everything" to support struggling sectors, public finances limit how far it can go. "The cheque book can no longer be used for all our fellow citizens," he said, adding that aid must now be carefully directed.

The remarks come as road hauliers ramp up pressure on the government, staging a so-called "snail operation" protest in Paris.

Police said between 150 and 200 coaches and lorries were expected to crawl along the capital's ring road between 10:00am and 12:00pm, causing significant disruption but remaining under police supervision.

France launches nationwide petrol station inspections as fuel prices jump Targete...