French protesters in final appeal to Sarkozy

Yesterday brought more nationwide street protests, and strikes caused travel woes, even though parliament already has approved President Nicolas Sarkozy's unpopular plan to raise the retirement age to 62.

Turnout appeared weaker compared to recent protests that drew millions of people across the country. In Paris, demonstrators waved trade union flags and set off flares, while in Marseilles, they beat drums and blew whistles. Protesters are making a last-ditch attempt to persuade President Sarkozy not to sign the bill.