France, Nov. 5 -- Clashes broke out in several cities, including Lyon, as authorities deployed 70,000 police officers and gendarmes across the country. Most demonstrations were proceeding without major incidents, the Interior Ministry said.

In Lyon, police counted 30,000 demonstrators, while unions put the figure at 55,000. Tensions were also reported in Toulouse, Rennes, Pau and Orleans.

Near Toulouse, a high school was evacuated after a fire broke out during the day's protests.

France reports 1,314 arrests after protests as police defend security operation Maintaining pressure

The day of action is the first since September to bring together private sector employees, civil servants and pensioners, adding to the movement started by hi...