Free Republic

Chirac's influence sinks to new low By Henry Samuel in Paris (Filed: 28/11/2005) Jacques Chirac's presidency hit a new low yesterday when a poll revealed that most voters think he now has little or no influence over events at home or abroad. Of those polled, 72 per cent regarded the influence of their president - who turns 73 tomorrow - over what happens in France as "weak". Jacques Chirac: perceived as a lame duck Two thirds said his clout on the world stage was feeble, while only 36 per cent thought he held any significant sway over European politics. Condemnation...

Chirac's jet flew an extra 1,200 miles to let him sleep By Christian Jennings (Filed: 09/09/2004) The most direct route from Paris to Moscow by aircraft is to fly due east. Unless you are President Chirac, that is. The French premier likes his sleep so much that, en route to a Black Sea summit with President Putin and Chancellor Schröder, he had his flight diverted by 1,200 miles so that he could have a long sleep. Le Canard Enchainé, France's version of Private Eye, tells a tale this week headlined "Chirac's sleep is priceless". On August 31, Chirac was due...