There’s not much that annoys President Macron more than France losing a £43bn military contract, but losing it to the UK has apparently made him 'very bitter'. He's accused Australia of betrayal after it pulled out of its submarine supply agreement with France in order to forge closer ties with the UK and the US.
Together with the US the UK will now help Australia build nuclear-powered submarines instead of the relatively primitive diesel-powered vessels. These can stay submerged for longer, move faster and are almost undetectable when underwater.
In a statement, Macron complained that Australia’s decision is contrary to the letter and spirit of cooperation that prevailed between France and Australia. Michel Barnier added “This behaviour between allies is unacceptable”. French foreign affairs minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the decision by Australia was a “stab in the back”. However, the Franco-Australian deal was already facing problems with increasing tensions between French shipbuilder Naval Group and Australia over rocketing costs and unwanted design changes.
Meanwhile, the UK has announced the new deal as one of its most significant collaborations in years, particularly for the North West of England, with BAE Systems in Barrow and other local suppliers expected to receive a massive boost to the economy and employment. Boris Johnson said that the AUKUS alliance will bring the UK, US and Australia closer together, creating a new defence partnership and driving jobs and prosperity.
Does anyone see the irony of the French President complaining about Australia failing to recognise the spirit of cooperation between the two countries. Not really his own strong point is it?
Anyway, I await posters' congratulations to Boris and his government for a spectacular result.
Together with the US the UK will now help Australia build nuclear-powered submarines instead of the relatively primitive diesel-powered vessels. These can stay submerged for longer, move faster and are almost undetectable when underwater.
In a statement, Macron complained that Australia’s decision is contrary to the letter and spirit of cooperation that prevailed between France and Australia. Michel Barnier added “This behaviour between allies is unacceptable”. French foreign affairs minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said the decision by Australia was a “stab in the back”. However, the Franco-Australian deal was already facing problems with increasing tensions between French shipbuilder Naval Group and Australia over rocketing costs and unwanted design changes.
Meanwhile, the UK has announced the new deal as one of its most significant collaborations in years, particularly for the North West of England, with BAE Systems in Barrow and other local suppliers expected to receive a massive boost to the economy and employment. Boris Johnson said that the AUKUS alliance will bring the UK, US and Australia closer together, creating a new defence partnership and driving jobs and prosperity.
Does anyone see the irony of the French President complaining about Australia failing to recognise the spirit of cooperation between the two countries. Not really his own strong point is it?
Anyway, I await posters' congratulations to Boris and his government for a spectacular result.