French pensioners join protests over Macron reforms

Thousands of pensioners demonstrated across France yesterday over increases in their taxes, the latest group to take to the streets over President Emmanuel Macron's economic reforms.

Around eight million pensioners on more than 1,200 euros ($1,400) a month will pay higher social security contributions next year as Macron seeks to slash the budget deficit.

The nine unions behind yesterday's protests say the increase -- expected to bring in 20 billion euros in revenue -- will set the elderly back hundreds of euros a year.

The pro-business Macron, whose government unveiled its first budget Wednesday, has made assurances that only the wealthiest pensioners will be asked to tighten their belts to ease the pressure on younger generations.