Violence has flared on the streets of Paris following peaceful demonstrations against the government's new labour law.

Nationwide rallies against the controversial legislation drew more than a million people to the streets of France's major cities.

The demonstrations were closely watched by police following clashes at similar events earlier this week.

The protests had been peaceful during the day with marching students backed by unions. They have threatened to call a nationwide strike if the government does not withdraw the CPE or 'First Job Contract' which allows employers to easily hire and fire people under the age of 26.

In previous outbreaks of violence, the police have blamed a minority of trouble-makers and looters for the unrest.

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