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‘Brexit: no-one else dares speak of leaving’: President Macron
The president also spoke of the threat from the far-right, the need for more border control, simpler rules and more defence investment in a speech in Paris
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‘It is my right to work beyond retirement age - but France says no’
Age discrimination in the workplace is real but hidden, says (soon to be forcibly retired) English teacher Nick Inman
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New summer flights and flat-rate rail pass: 7 French travel updates
We also look at baggage fee changes, a ferry and train offer - and the installation of motorway barriers to keep out boars
You just can’t run a country like a bank
Macron promised he would cancel local taxes for all in 2017... instead, he has reduced taxes and spread the cuts out over three years.
In addition, he said he wanted to increase tax on fuel to encourage people to give up diesel cars. That seemed a good idea but the truth is, it is to reduce France’s international debts.
Three French people out of four think he is unable to bring about good things; he lacks the necessary experience.
He has always thought it is possible to run a country as a bank, a gigantic error according to me (and a lot of others).
Many people, as I do, want to maintain their purchasing power, see a significant drop in taxes, bigger taxes on listed companies, proportional representation, abolition of the Senate. Ordinary voters want to have more influence on French politics. We want to often be able to decide directly, not via elected representatives, because we have no more trust in politicians. I am convinced if I ask a British person whether they think it is a good thing to make decisions for themselves, they will say “of course’’.
We would like the news to tell us what the government wants to do in 2019 about the poor... not more about violence and riots. I am not proud to have a country becoming a shambles. I like my nation, but how do you fight for more equality?
If you have a clever solution, or even just a clue, tell me.
Gilles CARRE, Aude
Editor’s note: Mr Macron’s election manifesto stated that ‘four-fifths of people will no longer pay taxe d’habitation by 2020’.