France’s politicians have sought to take advantage of the latest international tax scandal – the release of the so-called Paradise Papers after the publication of a report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.
Marine le Pen of the Front National has focused her attack on the international corporations that have avoided paying tax. She has suggested “creating a tax on the activities carried out in France by the big groups … and reinforcing international tax cooperation”.
At a press conference in the National Assembly on Monday, socialist firebrand Jean-Luc Mélenchon and deputies of his grouping France Insoumis said that all their amendments against tax fraud had been rejected in July. Among them: the removal of the “Bercy lock”, a measure that requires the judicial authorities to await the approval of the Ministry of Finance to investigate when there is a suspicion of tax fraud.
The Socialists have claimed that great progress was made while Francois Hollande was president, while les Republicans have so far said nothing at all.
Meanwhile, President Macron is reported to be more concerned about the push for independence in neighbouring Catalonia.