Boulogne-sur-Mer (AFP)

Jean-Pierre Pont, LREM deputy for Pas-de-Calais, accused on Monday evening of certain strikers against pension reform, "in particular" those who want to block refineries.

"For me, taking France hostage is completely illegal. And, of course, someone will criticize me, it is terrorist acts. Closing fuel supply centers (...) is that what democracy is? No, I don't think so, "he said on Delta FM.

"The strike yes, demonstrate yes, but be careful not to take the French hostage. It is completely illegal and it is undemocratic", added the former mayor UDF then UDI of Neufchâtel-Hardelot in remarks collected Saturday and broadcast Monday evening.

Relaunched on his accusations of "terrorism", Mr. Pont said: "Answer me: taking people hostage, what is that? Democrats? People who respect the Republic? No!"

"For me, the hostage reminds me of the hostages in Lebanon, the hostages when there was business in Paris (...) It could end in deaths, it's not possible ... Cut the electricity to a retirement home or a hospital, listen, frankly, no, I can't admit that, "he continued.

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