France set to open restaurants, cafés, bars

PARIS (Reuters) — France will allow restaurants, bars and cafes to reopen from June 2, though with more restrictions in Paris than elsewhere, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said on Thursday as he announced the next phase in easing the country’s coronavirus lockdown.

The government is also lifting a nationwide 100-kilometer travel restriction and will reopen beaches and parks from next week as it seeks to resuscitate the euro zone’s second biggest economy ahead of the summer tourism season.

“Freedom will become the rule, bans the exception,” Philippe said in a televised address.

More than 28,600 people have died of COVID-19 in France. On Thursday the death toll rose by less than 100 for the eighth day running.

The spread of the virus is slowing quicker than hoped for and Paris is no longer deemed a “red zone” coronavirus hot spot, Philippe said. But danger still lurked and there was no room for complacency, he added.

The greater Paris region is now an “orange” zone, meaning it is not as virus-free as almost all other regions designated “green,” and the easing of restrictions will be more cautious.

Across the country, restaurants, cafes and bars will have to ensure a minimum three-foot) gap between tables and all staff must wear face masks. In “orange” zones they will only be permitted to open outdoor seating areas.

Paris bistro owner Alain Fontaine watched Philippe’s address surrounded by empty tables and upturned chairs. Without an outdoor terrace, his kitchen will remain closed.