MACLASH
EU rivals hit out at Emmanuel Macron for trying to talk tough on Brexit to boost his battered image at home
EMMANUEL Macron today sparked a backlash from his EU allies over his macho stance on Brexit.
The French President was accused of acting tough to try and win over furious voters in his home country.
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Last night Mr Macron tried to block any Brexit delay longer than a few weeks at a crunch summit in Brussels.
He ended up compromising with Angela Merkel as the EU offered Britain an extension until October 31.
But other European politicians hit out at the French leader over his stubborn behaviour at the European Council.
Norbert Röttgen, a senior German MP from Mrs Merkel's party, blasted: "A longer Brexit extension would have been better!
"But Macron prioritized his own election campaign and interests over European unity."
Mr Macron has been battling to control the "yellow vests" protests which have wracked France for months.
His poll ratings tumbled in wake of the violent clashes between furious marchers and the security forces.
But striking a tough stance towards the UK is likely to be popular with French voters.
British Remainers today appealed to Mr Macron to step in and help to keep Britain in the EU for good.
Lib Dem MP Tom Brake tweeted at him in French, saying: "We want another referendum and the right to stay in the EU."
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After last night's summit, Mr Macron boasted about facing down other European leaders.
He said: "It's true that the majority was more in favour of a very long extension. But it was not logical in my view, and above all, it was neither good for us, nor for the UK.
"I take responsibility for this position, I think it's for the collective good."
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Theresa May speaks after she agrees to Brexit extension with the European Union until October 31
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