France's Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images)

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French Prime Minister calls for unannounced mandatory anti-drug tests for ministers and senior officials

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Sébastien Lecornu’s office stresses that the state cannot credibly fight drug trafficking while tolerating consumption among its own ranks.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has instructed all government ministers to organise “unannounced and mandatory” saliva drug tests for members of their ministerial cabinets, as well as certain high-ranking civil servants.

The measure, set out in a circular dated June 16, aims to prevent drug consumption within the state apparatus.

Titled “Measures to prevent the consumption of narcotics within the State”, the circular requires ministers to implement random, obligatory testing for their staff and for senior officials appointed by the government — including prefects, ambassadors, and rectors — particularly those in sensitive positions or holding security clearances.

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