The King’s first state visit of his reign has been postponed after widespread unrest in France erupted into violence over President Emmanuel Macron’s retirement age reforms.

The official trip will be rescheduled as soon as possible, the Elysee Palace said in a statement.

King Charles and the Queen Consort’s visit has been put on hold after nationwide demonstrations over planned pension changes.

A statement issued by Buckingham Palace said: “The King and the Queen Consort’s state visit to France has been postponed.

“Their majesties greatly look forward to the opportunity to visit France as soon as dates can be found.”

A UK government spokesman said: “This decision was taken with the consent of all parties, after the president of France asked the British government to postpone the visit.”

The state visit to Germany will go ahead as planned.