A majority of French people see Islam as incompatible with the values of the Republic, Manuel Valls, the French prime minister, controversially claimed on Wednesday, while backing a Muslim headscarf ban in universities.
In an interview with Libération newspaper, Mr Valls said: “I would like us to be able to demonstrate that Islam, a great world religion and the second religion of France, is fundamentally compatible with the Republic, democracy, our values and equality between men and women."
Asked if he was suggesting that Islam had not to date proved to be compatible with French society and values, he said: “Certain people don’t want to believe it, a majority of French citizens doubt it, but I’m convinced that it’s possible.”
Mr Valls' comments came as the authoritarian prime minister's popularity ratings have dropped to a record low amid controversial labour reforms and a string of street protests - including nightly gatherings in Paris' Place de la République called "Nuit Debout" (Rise Up At Night). [The Telegraph] Read more
