In his inaugural address to parliament, the new French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has warned that “colossal” and spiraling debts are a “sword of Damocles” hanging over the country’s finances.

In his inaugural address to parliament, new French prime minister says country's 'colossal' debt is 'sword of Damocles'

But he also faced angry shouts from left-wing lawmakers and immediate criticism from the far right, now a powerful force in parliament after surprise elections three months ago, of not being tough enough against immigration.