Paris, Aug 24, (dpa/GNA) – President Emmanuel Macron, issued a call to the French population to face up to disruption and show commitment in the face of climate change, and the war in Ukraine, as the cabinet held its first meeting after the summer break on Wednesday.
Macron called for an end to excess, indifference and everyday certainties, saying this was a period of “major upheaval.”
“Our system of freedom has its price that may demand sacrifices,” he said.
Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne would present an energy supply and savings concept in September, government spokesman Olivier Véran said after the meeting. Everyone would have to implement cuts in energy use, in both the private and public sectors.
The state would not impose regulations on saving energy, but would present a good example, he said.
France had supported purchasing power like no other country, with inflation at 6.7% lower than in most other countries, Véran said, but he also noted limits to the state’s finances.
The current cap on prices for electricity and gas, which have been extended to the end of the year, would not be extended in their current scope, he added.
GNA