- In France, President Emmanuel Macron has presented a series of possible reforms.
- He wanted to use these to stimulate the economy, he said at a press conference.
- France has had a new government since last week.
Among other things, Macron suggested regulating how long children can be on the internet. But he left open how this could be done. He also announced that uniforms would be tested in around a hundred schools. The president wants to reduce parental leave but pay it better.
Macron also announced that France wanted to improve control at the borders, for example to combat drug transport or radical Islam.
Due to a series of controversial reforms, Macron’s popularity fell significantly in his second term in office. His room for maneuver is limited because he does not have a majority in parliament. Reforms to pension and immigration policy last year in particular sparked widespread protests.
At the media conference, Macron also announced further military support for Ukraine. 40 Scalp cruise missiles are to be delivered. The president also held out the prospect of a support agreement like the one Ukraine already has with Great Britain.
France has had a new government since last week. Emmanuel Macron appointed Gabriel Attal as the new Prime Minister. Various ministers were also replaced.
Legend:
Macron is under pressure on many fronts.
REUTERS/Christian Hartmann