French President Jacques Chirac has backed his Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin in pressing ahead with a controversial youth employment law, which has been opposed by a series of mass demonstrations. Unions are vowing a new day of nationwide protests next week after an ultimatum for its withdrawal passed with no hint of concession. Mr Chirac is urging trade unions and student leaders to begin constructive talks. "I want to appeal to the responsibility of everyone of us," he said. "These demonstrations must take place calmly and with respect for everyone. I want to reiterate that the first employment contract is an important part of the policy of fighting unemployment. It will create new jobs for young people who are today, for the large part, outcasts of the labour market."