VOICED: French strike action as government defends pension reform

The transcript discusses protests in Paris against raising the minimum retirement age beyond 60, a policy initially set by President Francois Mitterrand. The French government, led by President Nicolas Sarkozy, argues that the aging population and rising youth unemployment necessitate this change to reduce the public deficit. However, socialists like Martine Aubry argue that the reforms are unfair to those who start working early. Despite large demonstrations, the government is unlikely to be deterred, with the next test being the bill's presentation to Parliament in September.

What was the main reason for the protests in Paris and other cities?

• To support the government's decision to raise the retirement age

• To celebrate the historical policy of retiring at 60

• To protest against raising the minimum retirement age beyond 60

• To demand higher wages for public sector workers

Who originally established the option of retiring at 60 in France?

• Martine Aubry

• President Nicolas Sarkozy

• The French Parliament

• President Francois Mitterrand

What is President Nicolas Sarkozy's main argument for delaying pension payments?

• To align with European standards

• To increase youth employment

• To improve the quality of life for retirees

• To reduce the public deficit

What do socialists like Martine Aubry believe about the proposed reforms?

• They are necessary for economic stability

• They are unfair to those who start working early

• They will benefit all employees equally

• They should be implemented immediately

What is the next significant event for the retirement reform bill?

• A parliamentary vote in September

• A second round of protests

• A presidential decree

• A public referendum