Three years ago the French government did  its best to suppress one of the many Bank Holidays in May. They opted for Whit Monday and suggested that it would be a 'day of solidarity' to raise funds for vulnerable people (following the deaths during the 2003 heatwave). This meant people would work but not get paid.

As you may imagine, this did not go down well and each year there has been uncertainty about who was working or not. Apparently 60% of workers took the day off  in 2006.

Last year, for example, no-one knew until the last minute whether schools would be open. In fact, they were closed. This year, the schools are closed again but due warning was given. In return, teachers have undertaken to put in two extra half day sessions - presumably sans pupils.

Some supermarkets are advertising business as usual while others are operating 'Sunday' hours.

With typical Gallic tenacity the French are holding out for their right to a day off - especially if it involves a long weekend - but lorry drivers are in a strange position. It seems they are officially at work but, because of  'jour de ferié' rules, their vehicles are not allowed on the roads.

It could only happen in France.