According to this report from Egamingreview they are. The only problem is, the French government will drag the process out as long as they possibly can to protect their local monopolies, while making it look like they are complying with European Union directives. Betfair get clearance from France ahead of liberalisation Interesting comment at the bottom, with someone disputing whether France have even established their gaming regulatory authority yet...
A blog about betting, trading, sport and some of the dodgy elements within them. www.sportismadeforbetting.com.