SPOTLIGHT ON FRANCE

In the aftermath of an explosion in Paris's 9th district, some 300 people remain without housing. The city of Paris has prevented people from returning to their homes pending an investigation into the origin of the explosion and to ensure nearby buildings are structurally safe. RFI's Anne-Marie Bissada reports on how the city is coping.

Increasing numbers of unaccompanied minors, often teenagers aged 14-17, are arriving in France, and Paris in particular. Despite a European requirement to protect all children, many of these young people are not recognised as minors, and find themselves left to their own devices. Hundreds of Parisians have stepped in, forming informal, ad-hoc networks and associations to try to advise, feed and even house as many of these young people as they can.

A leading MP from President Emmanuel Macron's party has caused uproar by saying that the government has been "too intelligent". He says he's been quoted out of context but critics say the remark is typical of the ruling party's style. Tony Cross reports, talking to David Coffey.

Portuguese migrants to France in the 1960s and 70s had no trouble finding work in the booming economy. But they were forced to live in slums, faced prejudice from some French people and were spied on by the Salazar dictatorship's secret police. This report visits Champigny-sur-Marne and talks to ex-residents of the huge shanty town that was situated there, as well as looking at the community as it is today.

Teargas was fired and there were clashes with police in Paris on Saturday when over 81,000 Yellow Vest demonstrators defied official orders to stay away from the Champs Elysées Avenue. The nationwide protests started a week before in response to rises in the price of petrol and diesel but have given voice to widespread discontent.