Sarkozy and Hollande meet in televised debate.

The two candidates in France's presidential run-off have appeared on television, 10 days before the vote, BBC News reported.

Incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy and Socialist challenger Francois Hollande took turns answering reporters' questions, many of which focused on economic issues.

Hollande, who won most votes in last Sunday's first round, polling more than 28%, said France needed "growth", not more austerity.

Sarkozy - who scored 27% - stressed the need to restore public finances.

"You don't think growth is achieved by spending freely," Mr Sarkozy said.

He promised to bring France's large budget deficit down of 3% of GDP by next year, and to eliminate it by 2016.

Mr Hollande, for his part, said: "There can be no return to balance without growth."

He also called for "Eurobonds" backed by all eurozone members to help indebted countries.

About Germany's opposition to the idea he said: "(Chancellor Angela) Merkel will probably contest these demands - this will be a subject for negotiation.

"It's not Germany that's going to decide for all of Europe."

Mr Hollande and Mr Sarkozy answered questions on a range of issues, including education, housing, policing, and immigration.