The finance ministry said data showing GDP growth in France of 0.5 pct over the third quarter shows the "resistance of the French economy to the global slowdown" the finance ministry said. The figures showed household consumption, which rose 1.2 pct after a rise of 0.3 pct pct in the previous period, is now the main engine for growth. The two other drivers, exports and commercial demand, have come to a "momentary halt", the ministry said in a statement. It said the figures showed no signs of an upturn, however, commenting that France is maintaining slightly higher activities than some of its partners.