France proposes short work week to cut unemployment

An unemployment rate of 12% has pushed recently-elected Socialist Premier Lionel Jospin to propose shorter work weeks as a means to spread existing work to more people. The plan has already won preliminary approval from the National Assembly, and if adopted would shorten a normal workweek from 39 to 35 hours. The plan would be voluntary initially, but required by 2002.

Large businesses in France balk at the idea, citing logistical problems for training, scheduling and benefits eligibility One of France's premier companies, Michelin Tire, has said publicly that it will consider relocating if the law goes into effect.