Deconfinement in France will not be by region

Yesterday President Emmanuel Macron spoke about a “deconfinement by region and sector” but this has now changed.

The end of confinement will instead be adapted to “the reality of each area,” the Elysée announced today after a video meeting was held between President Macron and local mayors.

The government will work directly with mayors throughout France concerning the details of deconfinement.

There will be no restriction to travel between regions, it was also confirmed.

The Elysée advised that the full plan for deconfinement will be presented next week, probably on Tuesday,

The return to school will be progressive and on a voluntary basis. From May 11, some pupils in maternelle and primary school classes CP and CM2 could return with priority being given to the youngest, those pupils with more difficulties, and pupils in rural areas.

The week after secondary school pupils (collège and lycée students in 6ème, 3ème, 1ère and terminales) will be able to start again.

From May 25, all classes would be able to return.

President Macron also encouraged the mayors to undertake a mass purchase of masks as a "recommendation but not obligation."