France's Barnier entrusts budget dilemma to little-known duo

France's Prime minister Michel Barnier looks on during a parade of French athletes who participated in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, France September 14, 2024. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/Pool/File Photo

PARIS (Reuters) - French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has handed a little known duo the task of plugging a huge hole in the budget, putting loyalty before political clout in the job description for his finance and budget ministers.

Ending weeks of suspense, Barnier unveiled his ministerial line-up late on Saturday, tapping 33-year-old junior lawmaker Antoine Armand for the prestigious economy and finance ministry.