News Reader.info

Gabriel Attal presented his first major policy speech to the French parliament today (January 30), promising to boost the minimum wage and simplify bureaucracy. We look at the key points of

what he said.

French prime ministers are accorded a policy speech at the start of their time in office. For Mr Attal, this comes as France is struck by a major protest by farmers, rising energy bills and

a cost of living crisis.

The young prime minister used the address as an opportunity to present a combative and energetic vision that belies his government’s lack of a clear majority and his party’s uncertain future

as President Emmanuel Macron enters his last three years in office.

Read more: Tax cuts and foreign doctors: Macron's wishlist to revive France

Echoing President Macron, Mr Attal announced his plans to “rearm” and “revive” France, fight against its creeping bureaucracy and low pay, and to reconcile the protesting farmers.

The prime minister also used the address to attack the Rassemblement Nationale (far-right), pointing out that of all the major parties in France, it was the only one that championed Brexit.

“The last steel works in Great Britain closed last week,” said Mr Attal in a pointed attack against Marine Le Pen’s party. “But here in France they are reopening and industry is returning

thanks to European investment!”

Mr Attal concluded his address by noting that “only ten years ago our country was tearing itself apart over the question of gay marriage… but to be French in 2024 means being able to become

prime minister and be a homosexual.”

“I know that the French people will not excuse failure”, he added, “But nothing can resist the will of the French people. In France everything is possible”.