The pair reportedly fled to China shortly after the killings, but returned to France “overcome with remorse” and handed themselves into police on the advice of their lawyer.

It is an offence under Turkish anti-terrorism legislation to show any public support for the PKK, and the fact that Illan was in possession of half a lemon – which can mitigate the effects of tear gas – was adduced as evidence against him.

Wednesday's move partially rolls back unpopular reforms enacted by previous President Nicolas Sarkozy, whose raising of the retirement age from 60 to 62 sparked weeks of protests in 2010.

The announcement follows of similar moves by the Socialists in recent weeks, including a 30 percent pay cut for the president and ministers and pledges to implement a new 75 percent top tax rate on incomes greater than one million euros.