Baby bonanza

French birth rate increased by 5% in one year 800,000 babies born in France last year - 35,000 more than previous year French and Irish women average 1.9 children each, the most in Europe

Last year almost 800,000 babies were born in France - that is 35,000 more than the year before.

The trend also appears to be continuing this year. A study of the average number of babies born to women shows it seems that French mothers are amongst the most fertile in Europe.

Both French and Irish women have on average around 1.9 children each. The research suggests Italy and the Netherlands have also seen an increase in the number of births, but in Britain the number of new born babies has fallen .

Family friendly

France does have a reputation for being a family friendly society.

Parents, for example, who find themselves standing waiting for a taxi with young children in their arms will often be catapulted to the front of the queue.

On the trains, larger families get significantly reduced fares. There are also good state benefits targeted at familes.