Sarkozy proposes tax cuts and greater spending on vocational training [France]

French President Nikolas Sarkozy’s proposed €26 billion (US$33 billion) economic stimulus plan includes an increase of $1 billion in Government support for vocational training. Faced with strike threats, Sarkozy has also announced plans for extra tax cuts and benefits for jobseekers and low wage workers, worth between $2 billion and $3.3 billion. Sarkozy outlined Government measures at a meeting with union and business federation leaders following a series of strikes and protests. The meeting also saw Sarkozy give his support to union proposals for a $3.8 billion fund for job re-training, half of which would be financed by the state.

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