France, Feb. 20 -- Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot signed a decree authorising the use of the devices.Often referred to by the brand name Taser, the weapons are intended to provide a non-lethal option in tense situations.

Rollout will begin on a trial basis, with around 10 percent of railway police - roughly 300 to 400 officers - permitted to carry stun guns in the coming weeks.

Speaking on the TF1 television channel on Thursday, Tabarot said the measure could offer "an appropriate response" to acts of violence on public transport, adding that authorities must ensure officers are equipped both to protect themselves and passengers.

France's two main transport operators maintain sizeable security forces. SNCF's internal railway polic...