French and Riviera News Thursday 12th September 2024

National News

France’s Prime Minister to announce new government next week - Recently appointed French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has committed to forming a new government next week. Whilst on a visit to Reims on Wednesday, Barnier made the promise to present a government as early as next week, adding that he was doing things in a "planned and serious manner" since his arrival at Matignon six days ago.

Three terrorist attacks foiled by French authorities - In other news, France’s anti-terrroism prosecutor has revealed that three attacks were foiled during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Two were planned in the French capital while a third was planned in Saint-Étienne. Those involved have been arrested and investigations are ongoing.

Potentially fatal disease from artisanal wild garlic pesto - Five people are in intensive care in Tours in the centre of France, with suspected cases of botulism, a potentially fatal disease. The cause is thought to be from artisanal cans of wild garlic pesto from the «O p’tits oignons » brand. Authorities are currently trying to trace some 600 cans which are in circulation. Botulism illnesses have been linked to foods such as homemade pickles and garlic in oil.  Supermarket products undergo rigorous manufacturing processes to avoid contamination in preserved foods. The bacteria is also used to make Botox - shots used by the cosmetic industry to manage wrinkles and frown lines. Botox has been purified though, so the toxi