France sets up air protection zones

The French government says it is establishing air protection zones around major cities and sensitive sites to prevent any attacks similar to those in the United States in September.

The Defence Minister Alain Richard told French Television the scheme would involve the use of military aircraft and ground to air missiles.

He said the installations that would be defended from potential suicide hijackers included nuclear plants, major dams and large-scale industrial sites.

More than 75% of France's electricity comes from nuclear power stations. Mr Richard said these were precautionary measures and not the result of any established threat.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service