France scales up targeted fuel price relief, says finance minister

France will expand targeted energy relief for households hit hardest by soaring fuel prices, Finance Minister Roland Lescure said Tuesday in Paris. The measures respond to a surge in costs linked to the Middle East conflict, which has fueled protests including by fishermen who blocked Mediterranean ports last week. Under the latest package, aid for low-income, high-mileage commuters will be doubled and extended to 5.5 million people, up from 3 million. The government also extended support through end-December for sectors including fishing, farming and construction. The new plan costs €450 million, bringing total spending so far to €1.4 billion, as borrowing costs worsen public-finance pressure.