On 16 and 17 October 1973, the Arab oil-producing countries announce an embargo on oil deliveries to states supporting Israel in the Yom Kippur War. From October to December 1973, the price of a barrel of oil increases fivefold. This is the first oil shock. Although France is not subject to the embargo, in a televised address on 30 November 1973, Prime Minister Pierre Messmer announces a series of decisions to reduce energy consumption: a ban on illuminated advertising, lighting in shop windows and empty offices between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.; no television broadcasts after 11 p.m. except on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays; less heating; and speed limitations for vehicles. On this photo dated 30 November 1973, a cyclist rides along a street in Paris wearing a sign marked ‘Petrol please’.