A French presidential hopeful says he would propose compulsory military service in New Caledonia among measures aimed to curb crime in the territory.
Nicolas Sarkozy made the suggestion in an interview with Les Nouvelles caledoniennes ahead of The Republicans' primaries to choose a candidate for next year's presidential election.
Former president of France Nicolas Sarkozy Photo: AFP
Mr Sarkozy also said military training would be mandatory for those over 18 who are not in formal education or employment.
He also said he would work towards lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16.
Mr Sarkozy said it's time to end the Socialists' culture of impunity in order to create a safe environment to discuss New Caledonia's future.
His comments come after last weekend's clashes near Noumea which left five policemen with gunshot injuries.
He said if elected president, he will convene consultative assemblies to determine whether New Caledonians want to proceed with an independence referendum in 2018.
Under the terms of the Noumea Accord a plebiscite is to be held within two years.
The Rassemblement, which is a New Caledonian affiliate of France's Republicans, is against a vote, saying it would be destructive.
