French Prime Minister Michel Barnier Unveils New 39-Member Government

Two weeks after his appointment, French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has unveiled his new 39-member government.

The new government consists of 39 ministers, with the presidential camp holding an advantage over the right, which has secured leading portfolios.

Key Appointments and Retentions

Prime Minister Barnier has retained Rachida Dati as Culture Minister and Sébastien Lecornu as Armed Forces Minister, the only two ministers to keep their jobs.

Bruno Retailleau, a senator from Vendée and a figure of the conservative right, has been appointed as the new Minister of the Interior. Retailleau, 63, is known for advocating a firm policy on immigration and will be exercising his first ministerial functions.

Laurence Garnier, a controversial figure due to her conservative positions, has been appointed as Secretary of State for Consumer Affairs after a two-day debate.

Other Notable Appointments

Jean-Noël Barrot, a member of the MoDem party, has been promoted to Foreign Affairs Minister. Catherine Vautrin, a Macronist, has been appointed as Minister for Partnership with the territories and Devolution.

Guillaume Kasbarian has been appointed as Minister for the Civil Service, while Agnès Pannier-Runachier has been appointed as Minister for Ecological and Energy Transition.

Economic and Financial Appointments

Antoine Armand, an inexperienced Macronist, has been appointed as Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry. Laurent Saint-Martin, a former MP, has been appointed as Budget Minister and will report directly to Matignon.

The development of finance laws for 2025 is seen as a top priority, with a focus on addressing budgetary slippage and sluggish growth.