MPs take a week's work experience

FRENCH MPs and senators have agreed to take part in a week's intensive work experience at a company to help them better understand the pressures facing the world of business.

About 100 lawmakers are involved in the scheme during the recess this week, seconded to firms around France to shadow the managing director.

The scheme is organised by the association Entreprises et Progrès and aims to open participants' eyes to the realities of running a French business.

Only 10% of France's 577 MPs gained first-hand business experience before they took their seat in parliament and business groups have often criticised the National Assembly and the Senate for failing to understand the issues that business leaders face.

Last year's edition prompted one MP to put forward a proposal in parliament to simplify payslips - after a week's work experience at a company including time in the payroll department.

The scheme's supporters say it encourages dialogue between MPs and businesspeople in a more natural setting than a round-table meeting at a ministry. Critics, however, say it could be used for lobbying purposes.