Protests in France are normally synonymous with trade unionists, students, farmers and that bugbear of the holidaymaker, air traffic controllers.

It is rare to see the chief executives of small and medium-sized businesses out on the streets venting their spleen.

Yesterday Paris and Toulouse witnessed the first in a series of protests by this sector, angry at what they see as bureaucratic red tape and punitive taxes on business.

The last time they marched was over the introduction of the 35-hour week back in 2000, something not making the banners this time.

According to OECD figures, the 35-hour week is honoured in the breach rather than the practice and the real target is upcoming legislation that president François Hollande promises will make life easier for such enterprises. However trade unions and Socialist Party deputies have expressed disquiet.

Expect more of the same this week, and don’t be surprised if that other beloved French institution, the counter- demonstration, makes an appearance.