French Economy Minister Roland Lescure apologizes for fuel tax comments

French Economy Minister Roland Lescure has issued an apology following controversial remarks regarding fuel taxes. During budget debates for the 2027 finance bill at the National Assembly, Lescure stated that high fuel taxes, which fund infrastructure, did not “prevent him from sleeping,” while acknowledging that they might prevent others from doing so.

The comments drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, including Marine Le Pen of the National Rally, who described the minister's attitude as “unbearable disdain.” Jordan Bardella also condemned the remarks as “unbearable Macronist contempt.”

The controversy occurs as diesel prices approach 2.40 euros per liter, driven by global oil market volatility linked to conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. While the opposition has called for radical tax cuts on fuel, such measures face significant fiscal and legal hurdles.