Rildanor

[Friedrich]

TENSIONS IN THE PLR

INTENS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT THE 5732 SOFTPOWER ACT 

Bernard Handais, Minister of Infrastucture & Transport (PLR) at a road workers event in March 5732

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Tiraille, July 5732. From our own correspondent.

In Parliament there was a fierce exchange of arguments between  coalition parties with the surprising exception of the PLR, and the FN during the Soft Power Act debate. Specially the second part of the bill was controversial as it proposes to give aid to poorer nations with trading rights in return. The PLR called this during the debate "blackmail". 

In the interview with the L'Examinateur Heraut FN Party Leader Plantier apologized for his used language but did not change his point of view nor his bill. PLR Partyleader Grandament and Minister Handais called this :"An easy way out while FN's proposal  stays reprehensible"  Moreover, sources close to PLR's leadership said that there was much criticism and frustration about the attitude of the PLS towards the issue. According to the MInister of Foreign Affairs, Muselier (PLS) the Soft Power Act has the support of the PLS and she supports this as well while the 3 other coalition parties are opposing the proposed act. For the PLR this appears to be a very sensitive matter. The Minister said that she did not act on behalf of the cabinet. 

Among the PLR party ranks there is also much dismay and unbelief  about the PLS. Some suggest that the party should leave this cabinet. Asked about this , Minister Handais stated that we should wait what the outcome will be and the President of the Government, Des Ambrois (PLS) might intervene. 
In August, the  PLR leadership will evaluate the situation and there might also be a chance that the President veto this bill if passed of course. It is no secret that Grandement has to deliver results and is fighting for her position. PLR watchers speculate that she chooses this as a suitable issue to upgrade her profile.