Paris, Jul 14 (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron says he wants to require masks inside all indoor public spaces by August 1.

In an interview with French television networks marking Bastille Day, Macron says “the best prevention” for the virus are masks, social distancing and hand washing.

Also Read | 59 Office Bearers of Tonk Unit of Congress in Rajasthan Tender Their Resignations in Protest Against Removal of Sachin Pilot As Deputy CM: Live News Breaking and Coronavirus Updates on July 14, 2020.

Macron says France's virus reproduction rate is inching past 1 again, meaning each infected person is infecting at least one other.

Many other European nations required masks in indoor public space when they started easing virus lockdowns. France took a more relaxed attitude, recommending but not requiring masks.

Also Read | University of St Andrews in Scotland, World's Third-Oldest English Speaking University, Embroiled in Controversy After Students Allege Sexual Assault on Campus.

Recent rave parties in France and widespread backsliding on social distancing -- even within Macron's presidential palace and other government facilities -- have raised concerns.

France has confirmed more than 30,000 virus deaths. (AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)