Tractors block major roads in Europe as farmer protests continue

French farmers are moving hundreds of tractors into place as a blockade of major roads, termed the "siege of Paris", gets under way.

Similar demonstrations are taking place across the country as part of continuing protests against falling incomes, rising bureaucracy and competition from imports.

Protests are also being held in Belgium and Germany, where tractors are blocking routes leading to Hamburg's port area.

Farmers say their aim is to stop food deliveries to supermarkets.

French authorities say 15,000 police have been mobilised to prevent tractors from entering Paris and other large cities.