François Hollande Critiques Michel Barnier's Policy Speech
In a recent general policy statement, Prime Minister Michel Barnier faced criticism from former President François Hollande, who remarked that Barnier "took a lot of time to say little and do almost nothing." This statement was made on BFMTV and RMC following Barnier's speech, which many deputies found vague and lacking in substance. Hollande, now a Socialist deputy for Corrèze, expressed concern that Barnier's address raised more questions than it answered, leaving him vulnerable to a potential motion of censure from the left.
Hollande highlighted that Barnier's government is constrained by a fragile majority, stating, "We have a Prime Minister, a sincere man I imagine, but who is crossed by all the contradictions of an extremely reduced majority." He pointed out that the Prime Minister's alliances with the presidential camp and Les Républicains (LR), along with the National Rally's imposed red lines, hindered his ability to make significant announcements.
Despite his criticisms, Hollande acknowledged Barnier's decision to increase taxes on the wealthiest individuals and large corporations, stating, "When we have to ask the French to make an effort, it is better to ask the wealthiest or the companies that have made the most profits." He expressed support for restoring the wealth tax and eliminating the flat tax, but cautioned that these measures alone would not suffice to address the broader economic challenges facing the country.
Hollande also raised alarms about the proposed massive spending cuts, fearing that essential sectors like national education and health could suffer as a result. He warned that these cuts would represent a significant political choice that could have lasting implications for French society.
