Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Profile

Factual: Life Stories

An insight into the character of an influential figure making news headlines

BBC Radio 4 FM

Profile: Michel Barnier

profile_michel-barnier_261116_e_el-amb.jpg

26/11/2016

Michel Barnier

BBC Radio 4 - Profile, Michel Barnier

Becky Milligan profiles the man chosen to represent the EU in Brexit negotiations.

Becky Milligan profiles the man chosen to represent the EU in Brexit negotiations - the French politician Michel Barnier.

Brexit negotiations between the EU and the UK are months away. And - as we keep hearing - there will be no discussion before notification (of the now infamous Article 50).

But we do know who will represent the EU in those negotiations: the French politician Michel Barnier, who met his counterpart David Davis this week.

Born in the Savoie region in south-east France, Barnier has been a committed Gaullist since he was a teenager. At 27 he made history in France by becoming the youngest MP ever elected. And in 1992 he took great pride in bringing the Winter Olympics to his region.

His allies say he is a reasonable, sensitive negotiator. His critics tell us he can be self-important and cold. Everyone agrees he will be fiercely committed to defending the EU's interests in the complex Brexit negotiations ahead.

Presenter: Becky Milligan
Producers: Smita Patel and Alex Burton.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Profile

Michel Barnier

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4