French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s newly unveiled cabinet of 39 ministers is set to focus on tackling the country’s debts and reducing migration levels. The government, dominated by conservatives and centrists, gathered for the first time as Barnier put the country’s budget and migrant issues at the top of the agenda.
At a meeting on Monday morning, Barnier addressed the newly appointed ministers ahead of a cabinet session at the Élysée presidential palace. The government’s key challenge will be the 2025 budget bill, with Barnier acknowledging the need for a “national effort” to address the country’s debt, which has led to France being placed under a European Commission procedure for excessive deficits.
Barnier hinted at raising taxes for the wealthiest French citizens while promising not to burden all taxpayers. He also vowed to “control and limit immigration,” citing Germany’s recent border controls as an example.
Despite political divisions following the hung parliament elections, Barnier’s conservative-led government aims to unite different political blocs in the National Assembly. The New Popular Front, which secured the most seats but failed to win a majority, was not able to form a government, leading to Barnier forming a coalition with Macron’s centrists.
Barnier, known for his role as the EU’s Brexit negotiator, emphasized the need for compromise and unity to address the country’s pressing issues. He is set to deliver his general policy speech in October, facing his first major political test as Prime Minister.
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