Everything was ready to go. Considered unfair and too costly, the 18-cent fuel discount in place since April 1 was to be scrapped and replaced with a new, more targeted device, according to Bercy’s plans, while prices at gas stations, which have dropped slightly, continue to flirt with 2 euros per liter.
In early July, the government released the outlines of this new “heavy duty” fuel allocation that was supposed to see the light of day in October. Set between €100 and €300 per beneficiary depending on income level and distance travelled, it was set up to support only “low-income households who must use their car to get to work”. Unlike the current discount that benefits the richest more than the poorest.
It was without counting on the refusal of the oppositions. Specifically, that of the Republicans who called on the Government to go “further” by demanding a liter of gasoline at 1.50 euros for everyone, via a tax cut. However, without the support of the right in the National Assembly, it is impossible for the majority to vote for the “big wheels” aid.
“We will see in the 2023 finance bill”
On Saturday, the government and LR deputies reached a compromise. Finally, the new allocation aimed at low-income households is discarded. Instead, the discount of 18 cents that applies to everyone will rise to 30 cents in September and October, before being lowered to 10 cents in November and December.
So, are we to consider that the “heavy duty” fuel allocation will never see the light of day? On Saturday, Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire only mentioned a “report”, without further details.
Guest this Monday on RMC and BFMTV, Franck Riester for his part indicated that this aid aimed at the most modest “is not buried.”
Source: BFM TV
