PARIS: French Prime Minister Jean Castex on Friday said the nation would shut its borders to non-European Union nations for all except important journey, whereas stepping back from a widely anticipated third lockdown.
The travel ban will come into force from Sunday to attempt to restrict the spread of recent variant cases of coronavirus from overseas.
Castex, talking after a meeting of the country’s defence council, stated he was not announcing a fresh national lockdown for now, including that “the next few days will be decisive” by way of any possible new restrictions.
President Emmanuel Macron added: “Lockdown is a legitimate question … (however) everyone knows the heavy impact that has on all fronts.”
In an attempt to stem the number of new infections, Castex stated big shopping centers – excluding those selling food – can be closed from Sunday, and enforcement of the current 6 pm curfew would be stepped up.
“Extra police and gendarmes will probably be mobilized to check non-compliance with the curfew, the organization of clandestine events, and the unlawful opening of restaurants.”
He stated only important journeys can be allowed to and from non-EU nations and all arrivals in France from inside the bloc except cross-border employees would be required to show a negative PCR test.
The requirement was previously imposed for air and sea travelers however would now also apply to those traveling by land too.
With schools and shops still open but restaurants and bars closed, France has fewer restrictions than some European neighbors.
The government, however, has been aware of rising fatigue among the public and alarm at the prospect of a 3rd lockdown.
