Eight weeks of lockdown took a heavy toll on France’s economy, which contracted sharply and plunged into recession. Many businesses across the country are beginning to re-open as the confinement period officially ends on Monday - but the government is still planning substantial financial support. It has unveiled €110 billion worth of stimulus in recent weeks, including a partial unemployment scheme that's paying the salaries of 12.2 million French workers. That will be wound down - but slowly, to avoid further shock.
Meanwhile, the French automobile, aerospace, and tourism industries are also in talks for further financial aid.
