France debates riot bill after 'yellow vest' unrest

French MPs on Tuesday began debating a controversial anti-rioting bill which aims to crack down on the sort of street violence that has marred "yellow vest" anti-government protests since November.

The bill notably aims to ban individuals identified as habitual hooligans from taking part in demonstrations, and force protesters involved in acts of violence to pay for the damage.

Some MPs also want more severe penalties for organisers of unauthorised demonstrations as well as people who cover their faces during violent protests.

But the bill has drawn fire -- even within President Emmanuel Macron's own centrist party -- from critics who say the proposals represent a threat to civil liberties.

Announcing the draft law earlier this month, Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said some of the anti-Macron "yellow vest" protests had led to unacceptable violence.

"In many towns in France, demonstrations have been peaceful -- but we cannot accept some people taking advantage of these demonstrations