French Finance Minister Roland Lescure has sparked controversy by labeling a proposed law permitting offshore oil and gas exploration in French overseas territories as "anachronistic" during a Senate debate on Thursday. The draft legislation has been met with significant opposition from within the government, with Lescure's comments signaling a formal and public stance against the proposed law.

The debate occurred within the French Senate, a legislative body that reviews and amends legislation passed by the National Assembly. Lescure's remarks were delivered directly during this discussion, indicating a strong position against the draft law. The proposal aims to potentially open up previously restricted areas surrounding French overseas territories for oil and gas exploration. These territories, which include islands and regions like French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, and others, possess unique environmental and economic characteristics.

The proposal has been met with resistance from environmental groups and local populations concerned about potential ecological damage and disruption to existing industries such as tourism and fishing. Lescure's description of the draft as "anachronistic" suggests he believes the legislation is outdated and inconsistent with current environmental policies and global efforts to transition away from fossil fuels. His position carries weight given his role as Finance Minister, responsible for overseeing the nation's economic and financial strategy. The outcome of the Senate debate and subsequent legislative process remains to be seen, but Lescure's vocal opposition presents a significant challenge to the draft law's advancement.