The Minister of the Economy spoke in favor of postponing the ban on the rental of “thermal sieves” before reversing course. With a view to the 2027 presidential election, Bruno Le Maire first wants to show that he is not just a “father of rigor”.
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Guest of the new France 2 political show, Thursday September 28 in the evening, Bruno Le Maire takes advantage of the presentation of the 2024 budget to try to make a little very political music heard, already looking towards 2027 and the post-Macron era. And it’s always complicated for a government heavyweight to distance himself a little. Bruno Le Maire is not accustomed to doing this. And for once he tried the acrobatics, he got his feet caught in the carpet. In an interview with Parisian-Today in France made public Tuesday evening, he said he was in favor, “personally”, to postpone the ban on the rental of “thermal sieve” accommodation. Wednesday morning, complete reverse, no more question of modifying the calendar which sets this ban at 2025 for housing classified G to 2025 and 2028 for those classified F.
The double message
Did Bruno Le Maire make a blunder? Well yes… and no. Yes, because in politics, one step forward, two steps back in less than 24 hours always makes a mess. Especially since he took a volley of green fire from several tenors of the majority. But for the Minister of the Economy, the main thing is elsewhere. He sent a double message. He first wants to show that he is not just a “father of rigor” who puts an end to “whatever it takes” to reduce deficits. He therefore appears to be the protector of the purchasing power of the French. And then, he wants to make a date. As the deadline approaches, the debate over leasing thermal strainers will resurface. A bit like the one which concerns the implementation of low-emission zones in urban areas. When the day comes, Bruno Le Maire will be able to say: “I told you so…”
The Minister of the Economy calls for “pragmatism” but also experience – almost seven years at Bercy – and then professionalism. Reason why he quickly distanced himself from the fiasco of the loss-making sale of fuels announced by Élisabeth Borne. But his concern is that the leader remains Emmanuel Macron.
The President let his minister repeat for three weeks that there would be no new rebates. Before announcing the allocation of a fuel check of 100 euros to more than four million motorists. This is the secret of the functioning of the executive, a minister cannot step out of line without being slapped on the wrist, while the boss of the Élysée can say whatever comes to mind .