France’s new interior minister Bruno Retailleau has come out in favour of a referendum on immigration in a bid to restore “order,” while acknowledging that the country’s constitution does not currently allow for such a vote, French media reported.
Bruno Retailleau said, speaking to broadcaster LCI late on September 29:
“We can’t hold a referendum on immigration in France. I regret that.”
Asked if he would personally like to hold such a popular vote, the minister said: “Yes, a thousand times yes,” adding that “the constitution would first have to be revised.”
France cannot currently hold a referendum on immigration because the issue is not among the topics on which such a vote can be held.
Retailleau said that over the past 50 years, immigration has greatly affected French society, but the French have not had “the opportunity to express their opinions.” Emphasising that he did not see immigration as an “opportunity” for France, the minister said it needed to be controlled and he was prepared to use “all the levers at our disposal.” He also added:
“Immigration can only be brought under control if we have an overall plan.”
The recent rape and murder of a 19-year-old Parisian student has further sharpened the immigration debate in France after a Moroccan man was named as a suspect in the attack. The 22-year-old suspect was arrested in Switzerland last week. French authorities say an expulsion order has been issued against the man.
On September 29, Retailleau indicated that the maximum detention period for those obliged to leave France could be increased, among other measures.
