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Did you know French police can check your home when you are away?
Here is how to sign up for the service, as well as a special check for elderly people. Plus, advice on how to avoid ‘fake police’ scams
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MAP: Which areas of Paris have had the biggest property price drops?
Drops of around 10% (up to €1,100 less per m2 in real terms) have been seen in several arrondissements. Only one has not seen a significant drop
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Is it true that you need to keep a breathalyser in your car in France?
French laws require certain items to be kept in a car at all times
More drivers in France to face breath-test
More drivers could be forced to use breath-test devices before starting a car under new plans from the Interior Ministry to cut drink-driving.
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Minister Christophe Castaner said the units should be used more as an alternative to a ban and to cut accidents, while helping drink-drivers who face losing work if their licences are removed.
Prefects can decide whether to use the system but only 55 departments do so at present.
The technology is mandatory in school buses but car units are expensive, costing €1,700 to fit, though they can be rented for €100 a month.
The legal limit in France is 0.5g/l, or about two units – two small beers or glasses of wine – or 0.2g/l for new drivers on probationary licences.
The offence rises from an ordinary fine and points off the licence to the more serious délit category from 0.8g/l.
The use of the new equipment as an alternative to a ban is allowed at the 0.8-1.8g/l level.