France supports adopting Belgium

Two-thirds of public in favour of French-speaking half of Belgium becoming part of France, as separatists win election.

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THE MAJORITY of French people are in favour of the southern half of Belgium becoming part of France if the country is split up, a new poll has revealed.

The Ifop poll for France Soir found growing popularity for the adoption idea. It was supported by 66% of people, up from 60% in 2008 and 54% in 2007.

The support rose to 75% among residents living near the Belgian border - in the Nord, Pas-de-Calais, Ardennes and Meuse.

Belgium's future is uncertain after Flemish separatists scored a landslide election victory in the north of the country last night.

The Socialists were the largest party in Wallonia, the French-speaking southern half of the country. Negotiations will now be needed to form a coalition government.

The France Soir poll was based on a representative sample of 1,006 people shortly before the elections took place.

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