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The meeting is set to break with precedent, as Mr Macron has historically only agreed to meetings with opposition leaders from his own centrist political family.<\/p>\n
France says they conceded to the meeting request as it is important for Sir Keir to \u201ctest\u201d French reactions to his proposed policies.<\/p>\n
No. 10\u2019s response to the meeting has today ranged from quiet disdain to attempting to downplay its significance.<\/p>\n
Asked about the meeting following PMQs, Mr Sunak\u2019s press secretary quipped: \u201cWhilst he’s planning his trip across the pond, he might like to spend five minutes to think about the 100,000 homes that are not going to be built because of what he’s doing\u201d.<\/p>\n
A reference to Labour\u2019s opposition to new Tory planning proposals, which will block many new homes being built.<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n Tory MPs, however, are angrier about the news.<\/p>\n One told the Express that Macron is a \u201cmassive Europhile and he recognises a kindred spirit\u201d in Sir Keir Starmer.<\/p>\n \u201cHe clearly expects Starmer to cosy up to the EU if Labour win the next General Election.”<\/p>\n Another said the fact the meeting is happening is \u201cvery off\u201d on France\u2019s part, \u201cespecially as Rishi is meant to be a mate\u201d.<\/p>\n A third reacted to the news with an expletive, demanding to know what both parties are playing at and adding: “Starmer should know better”.<\/p>\n Mr Sunak\u2019s relationship with Mr Macron has undoubtedly been the warmest of any UK Prime Minister\u2019s since he came to power in 2017.<\/p>\n With both perceived as relative centrists in their countries, they have also bonded as former bankers.<\/p>\n In March, Mr Sunak signed a new deal with President Macron worth more than \u20ac500 million to stop illegal migrants crossing the channel.<\/p>\n Mr Sunak\u2019s defrosting of diplomatic relations with his French counterpart has been described as a \u2018bromance\u2019.<\/p>\n
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