French ministries in argument over release of asbestos report

Article Abstract:

INSERM, France's national biomedical research agency, has announced that it will not publish the final version of its report on the dangers of asbestos as a book, as had been originally intended. Instead, it will just make copies available to be purchased by interested parties. This decision has attracted controversy, with some observers claiming that the publication of the report has been blocked on the instructions of the ministry of national education, research and technology. Claude Allegre, the minister for national education, research and technology, has been very critical of the report.

All Other Nonmetallic Mineral Mining, Miscellaneous nonmetallic minerals, Asbestos, Reports, Social policy, Asbestos industry

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Chirac downgrades science in re-shuffle of ministries

Article Abstract:

Newly elected Jacques Chirac of France surprised the country's scientific community when he abolished the independent science ministry. The move contrasts with the supportive treatment accorded by the government of former Socialist president Francois Mitterrand toward French researchers. France will no longer have a cabinet minister to handle research, but will instead have a secretary of state. However, the new 54-year-old secretary of state Elisabeth Dufourcq, is said to lack the political clout of politically inclined ministers under Mitterrand's administration.

Management, Executive departments (Government), Chirac, Jacques, Executive departments

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French science set to shift up a gear

Article Abstract:

France's new socialist prime minister Lionel Jospin has appointed noted geologist Claude Allegre as education minister. The move is seen by scientists as reinforcing the prime minister's commitment to science and technology. While definite policies have not been outlined, it is hoped that the Socialist government will reverse previous cutbacks in research jobs and budgets.

Science and state, Science policy

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