Mademoiselle abolished by officialdom

The title'Mademoiselle' has been banned from official paperwork in France following a circular from Prime Minister Francois Fillon.

Under pressure from campaigners the government decided that women will no longer have to choose between the married 'Madame' and the singleton 'Mademoiselle'.

The expressions 'Nom de jeune fille' and 'nom d'épouse' meaning maiden name and spouse's name will also be scrapped and replaced by a woman's family name.

This is a big success for feminists groups. Clémence Helfter of 'Osez le féminism' (Dare feminism) welcomed the news.

Madame Helfter remains cautious and wants confirmation that the circular will be implemented