Latest update: 02/08/2012 

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France goes for gold, but no medals for the government?

The French papers focus on good news for France's athletes at the Olympics, but disappointment at the new government's lack of ambitious reforms so far - this as ministers depart for their summer break.

By Kyle G. Brown

Le Parisien and Liberation lead with Lucie Décosse winning the gold in judo under 70kgs. It's the fifth gold for France and the 13th medal overall.

At home, the big reforms expected of Francois Hollande's government have yet to materialise. Le Figaro says that change was supposed to be now - making a mockery of the slogans plastered across campaign signs, "Change Now!"

Surprisingly, Libération agrees. It says cleaning the slate of a previous government - reversing its move to cut the tax on overtime pay for example - does not constitute a real policy alternative. Although the rise in minimum wage and rent controls do go some way, French companies continue to go under, and unemployment levels continue to creep up. 

“Burka non grata”
27/01/2010 - IN THE PAPERS

“Burka non grata”

Libération leads with the headline “Burka non grata”, a reference to recommendations made to the French Parliament yesterday on banning the full veil in hospitals, post offices, on public transport and across all public services. Veiled women, it appears, are persona non grata in secular France.
Ethiopian Airlines crash and Baghdad bombings dominate headlines
26/01/2010 - IN THE PAPERS

Ethiopian Airlines crash and Baghdad bombings dominate headlines

Tragedy dominates the front pages of international papers this morning, however we take a look at some lighter stories too including P Diddy’s son’s extravagant 16th birthday party.
Sarkozy rebranded
26/01/2010 - IN THE PAPERS

Sarkozy rebranded

The French President was interviewed by a panel of 11 French citizens last night on the TF1 channel. The papers agree that Nicolas Sarkozy sought to rebrand himself as a calmer President who is very aware of the problems of ordinary people.
Haiti survivor: "Saved by whisky, beer or soft drinks?"
25/01/2010 - IN THE PAPERS

Haiti survivor: "Saved by whisky, beer or soft drinks?"

In today’s international press revue, we focus on the story of Wismond Exantus. The 24 year old is one of the last survivors pulled out from the rubble, following the devastating earthquake.
"What the French expect from their 'Président'?"
25/01/2010 - IN THE PAPERS

"What the French expect from their 'Président'?"

In today’s French press review, we focus on President Sarkozy’s appearance on prime time television tonight.

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