quiz
The France news challenge: November 8, 2026
How closely have you followed the news recently in France? Test yourself with eight questions
Published
Modified
1. The October protest movement in France first grew out of which group’s demonstrations?
a) Farmers protesting EU trade deals
b) Students protesting conditions in schools and universities
c) Taxi drivers protesting ride-hailing apps
d) Doctors protesting pay
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B. It began with students, then drew in trade unions and gilets jaunes supporters.
2. Champagne is normally capped at 13% alcohol. After the summer’s heatwaves and drought, what limit has been allowed for the 2026 harvest?
a) 13.5%
b) 14%
c) 15%
d) 16%
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C. This is the first time such an exception has been granted. Most wines are expected to stay around 13%, and because of ageing rules these bottles won’t reach shops before 2028.
3. Why did the sea turn red in the Bay of Brest, Brittany, in late October?
a) A toxic phytoplankton bloom
b) An industrial dye leak
c) A red seaweed releasing its pigment as it decomposed
d) Iron-rich sediment stirred up by a storm
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C. Ifremer identified the red alga Rytiphlaea tinctoria, and there is no known health risk. The Romans and Celts once used its pigment for dye and make-up.
4. From November 1, an extra EU handling fee applies to small parcels from outside the EU. How much is it?
a) €1
b) €2
c) €3
d) €5
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B. The €2 fee comes on top of the €3 customs duty introduced in July.
5. France’s most famous literary prize, the Prix Goncourt, was won by French author Philippe Jaenada on November 3. How much is the winner’s cheque worth?
a) €10
b) €10,000
c) €50,000
d) €100,000
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A. The cheque is a symbolic €10, but winning generates huge book sales
6. The new A69 motorway has barrier-free tolls. Drivers without a toll badge or online account must pay within how long?
a) 24 hours
b) 48 hours
c) 72 hours
d) 7 days
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C. Payment can be made on the A69 website or at a participating Nirio payment point, by card or in cash. Eligible very-low-emission vehicles such as electric cars get a 20% discount.
7. From what date each year must drivers in France’s designated mountain areas have winter tyres, or carry chains or snow socks?
a) October 1
b) November 1
c) December 1
d) December 21
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B. The rules apply until March 31.
8. Dordogne is scrapping its controversial pay-as-you-throw bin charges. What will replace them from 2027?
a) Free collection paid for by the state
b) The TEOM, a waste tax collected with the taxe foncière
c) A flat €3 charge per bin collection
d) A charge per kilo of rubbish
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B. Many households are expected to pay more under the TEOM.
