Minister rows back on idea of abolishing cash to fight drug deals

FranceFrance isn't getting rid of cash, justice minister Gérald Darmanin clarified on Friday after telling lawmakers a day earlier that the move would help stop drug trafficking, reports Politico.

In an interview with radio station RTL, Darmanin recognized that getting rid of banknotes was unpopular and that the government lacked the “political means” to take a move that would significantly affect the everyday lives of millions of people.

Darmanin said a debate on the future of cash would require “a lengthy discussion with French people,” especially to address the concerns of small businesses and older citizens.

Read more of this report from Politico.