France bans unsolicited telemarketing to protect consumer peace

France has barred unsolicited telemarketing calls across all sectors, with exceptions only for calls tied to a contract or where the recipient has given prior marketing consent. Consumer group Que Choisir Ensemble calls it a victory for consumer quiet, while business groups warn of added administrative burdens. Parliament data shows widespread annoyance with telemarketing, and while other European countries vary, the UK permits calls unless blocked by the recipient.