France has begun expelling Roma immigrants after the new government promised action on public health grounds.
Two camps near Lille in northern France were closed on Thursday morning, following similar moves in Paris and the Lyon area.
About 240 east European Roma were put on a flight to Bucharest after agreeing to return to Romania voluntarily. compensation of 300 euros ($US317) was given to each adult.
Critics say the Socialists are copying the mass clearances under former President Nicolas Sarkozy.
Interior Minister Manuel Valls said in a statement on Wednesday that court orders to remove illegal camps would be executed "with firmness".
Mr Sarkozy's demolition of illegal Roma camps and expulsions in the summer of 2010 drew protests from neighbouring countries and the European Commission.
