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Former French Premiers âonly happy when they sleptâ. Guilty consciences?
Seven former French prime ministers have admitted that life as head of government was close to a living hell. In a series of interviews in Le Monde, Pierre Messmer, Raymond Barre, Pierre Mauroy, Laurent Fabius, Michel Rocard, Edith Cresson and Edouard Balladur all agreed that the job was a "formidable grinding machine". Mme Cresson, Franceâs only female prime minister, who survived in the job for less than a year from 1991 to 1992, was categorical. "It wasnât worth it," she said. "I should have refused." For M Mauroy (1981-1984) sleep was the only release. "When one is at this post, it is a pleasure to sleep, to forget everything," he said.As for Presidents - presumably theyâre just happy enough enjoying the postâs major perk: immunity from prosecution. Posted by: Bulldog 2004-03-08 |
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