Jeremy Clarke Jeremy Clarke

The tyranny of French bureaucracy

Applying for a bank account is like trying for a permit to open a Christian bookshop in North Korea

Having failed twice to open a French bank account, I thought I’d try instead for a post-office account. Credit: mauinow1

Already a subscriber? Log in

This article is for subscribers only

Subscribe today to get 3 months' delivery of the magazine, as well as online and app access, for only £3.

There’s no commitment, you can cancel any time.

  • Weekly delivery of the magazine
  • Unlimited access to our website and app
  • Enjoy Spectator newsletters and podcasts
  • Explore our online archive, going back to 1828

Comments

A blooming good offer

Join the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting the next 3 months for £3.

Already a subscriber? Log in