Police use water cannons and tear gas on protesters in France

Police arrested 1,314 people in nationwide protests in France, the interior ministry said Sunday, adding that 53 officers were hurt in clashes.

The arrests occurred as violence broke out on the margins of mass demonstrations in major cities on Saturday over the high cost of living, the protection of public services and social justice.

It brought together former members of the Yellow Vest movement as well as labor unions, high school and university students.

It was the second consecutive weekend of unrest in France, which is heading to presidential elections in April and May to choose a successor to Emmanuel Macron, who is reaching his two-term limit.

The interior ministry said police responded to 75 fires during Saturday's protests, adding that 24 shops were looted. "Several investigations have been opened," it said in a statement, without giving details.

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