Eurotopics.net

The Bulgarian parliament decided at the end of September to phase out coal by 2038 - just in time to receive EU funds for the move away from fossil fuels. According to the plans, coal-fired power plants and coal mines will be gradually shut down and workers will receive compensation or be employed at a transitional state-run company. But miners and workers have been protesting for days now, blocking important motorways and demanding that the government resign.

For weeks, EU member states have been negotiating a reform of the bloc's asylum system which primarily foresees more stringent measures. Now the states have agreed on a common stance on the EU Commission's proposals for a Crisis Regulation. Under the new rules, in the event of sudden increases in the number of arrivals migrants can be detained for longer periods under conditions similar to detention. Europe's press focuses on national interests.

Schoolchildren in England will have to leave their mobile phones at home in future. The Conservative government has announced a blanket ban on mobile phones in schools in a bid to prevent distractions, disruptions and bullying. The response in the press is divided.

Bedbugs have been a nuisance in a number of French cities for decades. Now the topic is taking on political dimensions. Members of the country's National Assembly argued over what measures should be taken to counter the problem on Tuesday - a test tube full of bugs was brought into the parliament as a visual aid - with some demanding drastic measures. The government will hold an emergency meeting on Friday. Commentators warn against making a mountain out of a molehill.