French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal gave a speech on the general course of his policies before the National Assembly on January 30, in which he noted that agriculture should be subject to “exceptions.” His statement comes amid the strong discontent of workers in that sector who have been blocking important roads in the country for more than a week. The plan to withdraw fuel subsidies, which Paris later backed down on, unleashed the anger of farmers and added to other discontent. In his presentation, Attal highlighted work, public services, authority and the environment among the priority topics on his agenda.
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Although he did not specify the measures, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal was in favor of concessions to agriculture, a nod of support as the anger of workers in the sector grows.
“Our agriculture is a strength and also our pride. That is why I say it solemnly here: there must be a French agricultural exception,” said Attal in a speech before the National Assembly on January 30, in which he outlined the general policies of the Government, after being invested in the position less than a month ago.
The Administration's announcement to eliminate diesel subsidies was the straw that broke the camel's back for farmers and unleashed strong protests and blockades. Although Paris later backtracked on the decision, in an attempt to calm things down, protests continue amidst the accumulation of disagreements.
🔴 Sommet d'hypocrisie atteint à l'Assemblée nationale: Gabriel Attal fustige « les décisions qui tombent d'en high, d'on ne sait où… »
Il fallait oser. At-il oublié qu'il est au Gouvernement depuis 2018?
Pas un mot pour assurer des prix rémunérateurs garantis aux… pic.twitter.com/wQ1yXMPgdi
— L'insoumission (@L_insoumission) January 30, 2024
Farmers demand measures to improve their current working conditions, among which they denounce low salaries. In addition, they ask to eliminate tax pressure on farms, such as environmental care measures, maintain fuel tax exemptions for machinery and product imports.
“I am lucid in the face of the accumulation of regulations, decisions that come from above and sometimes fall we don't know where (…) Farmers also have doubts and are waiting for answers and solutions,” Attal said this Tuesday.
Beyond the simplification of rules and bureaucracy by the Government, farm workers demand a modification of European policy to limit the entry of products from Ukraine and end free trade agreements with other economic blocs.
News in development…
With Reuters and EFE
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