France's prime minister vows to curb debt as he faced baptism of fire at heckled parliament
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faced a rough ride at parliament as he laid out his proposed policies in an inaugural speech that highlighted how difficult governing will be for his minority government
PARIS (AP) — Lawmakers gave new French Prime Minister Michel Barnier a rough ride, heckling him constantly, as he laid out his proposed policies in an inaugural speech to parliament on Tuesday, a baptism of fire that highlighted how difficult governing will be for his minority government.
In a wide-ranging speech, Barnier, a veteran conservative, warned soberly of France’s colossal debt, promised belt-tightening and more taxation to improve the nation’s finances, and said France will continue to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion.
But he also faced angry shouts from left-wing lawmakers and immediate criticism from the far right, now a powerful force in parliament after surprise elections three months ago, of not being tough enough against immigration.
The address to the new legislature’s opening session was a crucial test for his new government, which has no clear majority in the parliament. The National Assembly after legislative elections produced no clear winner.
