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Ecology Minister Francois de Rugy often campaigns for government transparency and has criticized other politicians involved in financial scandals. He got a taste of his own medicine earlier this week when investigative website Mediapart alleged that he hosted more than 10 luxurious dinner parties in which the guests enjoyed lobster, as well as fine wine and champagne - all paid for with taxpayer money. This reportedly took place when de Rugy was the head of the lower house of the French parliament, the National Assembly.
The scandal prompted calls for de Rugy to resign, which he refused to do. He dismissed the story as a "grotesque" smear, claiming he does not eat lobster due to a "shellfish allergy" and avoids champagne because it gives him "a headache."
Local lawmaker Nicolas Dainville told RT France that the minister's attitude is "a disgrace for all these politicians [in the current government], and it widens the gulf between them and the citizens."
Journalist and co-founder of the publication Le Monde Moderne Alexis Poulin called de Rugy "a lobster, concealing a pack of sharks," adding that the story is a "sad sight that we should not see in France."
Comment: If the minister did claim these items on his expenses then they'll appear in his accounts, and, if he is lying found to be lying, then he should be sacked immediately. This kind of outrageous, oblivious behaviour is commonplace in Western governments these days and it's no wonder populist and protest movements are erupting throughout Europe:
- Political Ponerology: A Science on The Nature of Evil adjusted for Political Purposes
- Details of MEPs' €4,416-a-month expenses to remain secret, court rules
- UK MPs award themselves above inflation pay rise
- UK MPs claiming expenses for 'dependent' children who are actually adults
Also check out SOTT radio's: NewsReal #26: Globalization vs Nationalism - The Hidden Causes of The Yellow Vest Protests in France