The French finance minister said that officials will meet with the prime minister later on Monday to discuss gasoline and diesel supply issues and measures to help the public cope with rising costs. He said he would prefer to automatically renew asset-based subsidies, but they won't lower taxes like other European countries. “It is likely that there will be additional subsidies from October 1, but it will not be a general tax deduction.” he said. As the French government is already under pressure to control the rising budget deficit, there is limited room to provide broad support to families.

The French finance minister said that officials will meet with the prime minister later on Monday to discuss gasoline and diesel supply issues and measures to help the public cope with rising costs. He said he would prefer to automatically renew asset-based subsidies, but they won't lower taxes like other European countries. “It is likely that there will be additional subsidies from October 1, but it will not be a general tax relief.” he said. As the French government is already under pressure to control the rising budget deficit, there is limited room to provide broad support to families.