France, April 14 -- "The government is aware of the particular sensitivity of this issue," said labour minister Jean-Pierre Farandou on Monday evening, following a meeting with trade union reps.

"It is Workers' Day - the only public holiday that is a paid day off. This general principle must continue to prevail, even if certain exemptions are possible."

The bill proposed to allow employees in shops such as bakeries, greengrocers, florists and butchers, as well as in cultural venues such as cinemas and theatres, to work on 1st May provided they volunteer.

Currently, only sectors that cannot be interrupted - such as hospitals, hotels, cafes, food stores and transport - can open on 1st May and all employees are paid double. Shop owne...