content: labor reform laws that strip many rights that workers have and give more power to employers.  **French labour reform bill - key points: The 35-hour week remains in place, but as an average.  Firms can negotiate with local trade unions on more or fewer hours from week to week, up to a maximum of 46 hours Firms are given greater freedom to reduce pay The law eases conditions for laying off workers, which is strongly regulated in France.  It is hoped companies will take on more people if they know they can shed jobs in case of a downturn Employers to get more leeway to negotiate holidays and special leave, such as maternity or for getting married.  These are currently also heavily regulated**