Sarkozy is planning a reshuffle after the pension reform
On his role in the regional campaign
The president denies having engaged in this campaign, including during his trips to the provinces. "I did not give instructions to vote and I will not do. But agree it would be strange if I'm the only one able to explain the issue of regional elections! ". As for the convening of leaders of the campaign in the Ile-de-France, President irritated "those controversies which are permanent loss of valuable time in France": "What has he wonder that I meet with elected Ile-de-France while I myself am an elected official in this region since 1977? ". Concerned by the record abstention rate announced for the election, Nicolas Sarkozy asked the French to vote "is also a civic duty."
The consequences of the ballot
"I am of course aware that the French would say."But Nicolas Sarkozy is very clear: "The election of 14 and 21 March is a regional election: its consequences are so regional. Stressing the need for some stability to the government action, the President cited the example of the longevity record of Christine Lagarde – Minister to only be quoted in the interview – the Ministry of Finance: two and a half years. The president may be considering a "new step" but only after the pension reform – a text should be submitted to parliament in September – even if it does not by that "some governmental adaptation.
On the debate over national identity
Defending himself for having stopped the debate on national identity before the regional, Nicolas Sarkozy promised "major steps" he announced in April.Quoting the words of Claude L?vi-Strauss' identity is not a disease, "the President considers appropriate for the gathering of the country" think together about the direction that our nation should go to the project, its values .
On the economic and fiscal policy
Convinced that the Strategy on Economic currently followed will bear fruit in 2010, particularly in employment, the President is however concerned about deficits. "The truth is that we want the public expenditure and that the crisis has drastically reduced our income tax" analysis does. But no question of raising taxes, he promises again, "either today or tomorrow." "I do not believe in a policy of austerity that has never worked and is cons-productive."The president has not abandoned the idea of a "social VAT" – a term he rejects – for we must continue to consider ways of financing social protection other than taxing work. The carbon tax will also be the day after a consultation at national and European level.
On pension reform
Following consultations with the unions, the government will make proposals for a text to be tabled in Parliament in September. Nicolas Sarkozy reiterates its commitment to the reform will affect the 21 million private employees and 5 million from the public. And if lengthening the contribution period there must be, it concerns both the private and the public.However, the calculation of pensions (based on six months in the public and the best 25 years in private), the President recalled that staff bonuses are not included as it is in the private. "All these elements must be on the table."
On the popularity of Fran?ois Fillon and a second term.
"If it was not popular, I would say we must change. If it is, I am told it is a problem for you. All this, they are vain conjectures. My only problem is to carry out the reforms expected by the French. Do not create problems where there are none. " As for his decision to represent 2012, Nicolas Sarkozy reiterated that the question is premature."I take position at the end of 2011, taking into account a number of collective and personal criteria.
Future reforms, other major projects, open policy of nuclear burning issue … Find the full interview of Nicolas Sarkozy in Le Figaro Magazine to be published Friday, March 12.