YELLOW vest demonstrators clashed with security services in Toulouse on Saturday as the French government continued to ignore complaints of police violence.

Riot police fired tear gas at protesters in the southern French city as thousands took to the streets for the 22nd consecutive week demanding the resignation of neoliberal President Emmanuel Macron.

They are also demanding Interior Minister Christophe Castaner step down after a series of provocative statements and a refusal to recognise violent attacks on protesters by police.

At least 1,700 people have been injured during the five months of protests, according to government statistics. Eleven people have died since the demonstrations began in November, sparked by rising fuel prices. mainly due to traffic accidents. But many of those hurt on the streets have suffered limb and eye injuries due to the use of stun grenades and rubber bullets by security services.

About 2,000 people gathered in Toulouse on the Allee Jean Jaures, an avenue named after the French socialist and founder of L’Humanite newspaper. Protesters also marched in the capital Paris, and the movement shows no signs of abating.

Mr Macron is believed to be set to announce new policies aimed at dampening the anti-government protests, but no details have been given.