INFO FRANCEINFO. In a circular, Michel Barnier imposes on his ministers more sobriety when traveling

The Prime Minister “wants a method of government which is based on efficiency, simplicity and sobriety”. And this begins, according to him, by reducing the size of processions during travel and respecting the highway code.

No more convoys at 160 kilometers per hour on the highway, or rushing through Paris, the flashing lights and the large police force that goes with them. Ministers, who often travel on this or that theme, will have to “reduce the size of their processions” et “respect the highway code”, can we read in a circular taken by the head of government, dating from Tuesday November 12, which Franceinfo obtained and revealed on Wednesday November 20. “I want to ensure that these rules are scrupulously respected in your daily action, in particular during trips organized as part of your actions throughout the territory,” insists Michel Barnier in this circular. He adds that “the means deployed on this occasion will in no case be ostentatious”.

An advisor to the executive admits: “after five years in ministerial office, it will feel strange to have to stop at a red light”but he welcomes the approach imposed on himself by Michel Barnier. A source reports to Franceinfo a scene. After a trip, the Prime Minister's car gets stuck in traffic. His driver starts to turn on the flashing lights to be able to move faster, but the head of government stops him right away.

It is also a question, in this circular, and in the directives given orally by the Prime Minister to members of his government, of behavior to adopt once on site, while traveling. It's a bit like “father” Michel Barnier who asks his “children” the ministers to behave well among people. Rule number one: notify the prefect in advance of his arrival, at least 72 hours in advance, except in an emergency. Rule number two: once there, greet everyone who participated in the organization, from the little ones to the senior ranks, and thank them. And then, rule number three: take time. No question of coming just for an hour or two, taking a few images and holding a microphone. The head of government encourages them to stay, as much as possible, to share a lunch or dinner with those who are hosting. “It’s a republican tradition to which I am attached”writes Michel Barnier.

The latter also asks “vary the chosen locations” for travel, to make them outside the Paris region and large easily accessible metropolises. The objective, according to him: “adapt our action to the realities of the territories” et “exchange with all our fellow citizens”. The Prime Minister wants these trips “illustrate a clear message” of his policy. Clearly, there is no question of being ostentatious when we ask the French for efforts. Around him, we praise “a new method” since his arrival at Matignon. But it has difficulty taking shape in Parliament, “Barnier plays on the support of public opinion”according to an elected Macronist. Support which, convoy or no convoy, will end according to her “by crumbling because of budgetary austerity”.