The line-up of the new French government has been announced as President Hollande sets about reasserting his authority over economic policy.<br /><br />Out going Arnaud Montebourg and other left-wing ministers who had spoken out against austerity, calling for an economic U-turn.<br /><br />The new economy minister is seen as distinctly pro-business. Emmanuel Macron, 36, is a former merchant banker and presidential adviser.<br /><br />The Prime Minister Manuel Valls told French TV news:<br />“We continue to agree on the fact that we must help companies – big companies which represent France throughout the world, but also small and medium sized firms, tradesmen, the social economy, start-ups: places where the overwhelming majority of our fellow citizens work and where wealth is created. Without our companies’ wealth there is no job creation.”<br /><br />Benoît Hamon and Aurélie Filippetti also leave the government – replaced by Najat Vallaud-Belkacem as Education Minister while Fleur Pellerin takes on the role of Culture Minister.<br /><br />Valls added that he would call a vote of confidence in parliament for September or October. It could be a calculated gamble designed to head off any potential rebellion from the disgruntled left. <br /><br />MPs are due to examine the new budget and other reforms.<br /><br />Europe is also watching. The new government will want to convince Brussels that its growth-boosting measures are within EU rules. <br /><br />The second change of government since François Hollande took office is being seen as the last chance to save his unpopular presidency.
