New Delhi, Delhi, India

France has decided to end special government powers that were brought in after the country witnessed an outbreak of coronavirus. The powers will end on July 10 but will still be able to curb mass gatherings and freedom of movement for four months, as per Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office. 

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In March, France witnessed an outbreak of the virus and the state decided to pass "state of health emergency" legislation. This legislation gave government powers to restrict civil liberties by decree without parliamentary approval.

With the coronavirus figures are declining in the European country, France lifted its lockdown on May 11 and now is confident to end emergency powers. 

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"In view of the positive evolution of the health situation at this stage, the government wishes to put an end to the state of health emergency, which must remain an exceptional case," Prime Minister Edouard Philippe's office said.

On Wednesday, the French cabinet will pass a new bill that will allow the government to restrict freedom of movement, make face masks compulsory on public transport, shut businesses and ban gatherings for another four months, Prime Minister's office said.

France has the third-highest death-toll (29,296) in Europe, behind the UK and Italy. Shops, holiday resorts and tourist attractions slowly reopening as the country eases its lockdown.