Pacifism is no longer an option for Germany after the Berlin Christmas market attack, according to French conservative presidential candidate François Fillon, who will meet with Angela Merkel to outline his plans for Europe in the coming days

Mr Fillon, whom some have dubbed a Gallic Thatcherite, is the current favourite to become France's next president in elections in April and May after his surprise victory in primaries for his Right-wing party, The Republicans.

In his first major media appearance since becoming the centre-Right nominee, the Gaullist pledged to focus on defence, security and a more integrated euro zone.