Unemployment at highest since 1998

THE number of people looking for work in France has reached its highest level in nearly 15 years.

Unemployment rose by 0.9 percent in November to 3.13 million, the highest since January 1998.

It represents an increase of 10.8% year on year and is the 18th consecutive month that unemployment has risen.

Including those who are working a reduced number of hours, the number of people seeking work in France stands at 4.61 million - up 9.2% on last year.

The highest unemployment figure in recent history stands at 3.2 million, back in January 1997.

On a visit to Rungis international produce market on Thursday, François Hollande said employment would be one of France's greatest priorities for 2013.