French political parties look for alliances ahead of final round of local elections

Candidates look for deals with rivals to boost chances as major seats including Paris, Marseille and Lyon look close

Political parties in France are hastily attempting to negotiate strategic alliances ahead of the final round of local elections this weekend, after a strong showing by the far right and the radical left.

This Sunday's final-round vote for mayors and local councillors in major cities including Marseille, Lyon and Paris will be close.