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Emmanuel Macron Suffers Some Rotten Luck in the Oil Market

A French national flag hangs from a vehicle as it moves alongside stationary traffic during a protest against fuel costs near Rodez on Nov. 17.

A French national flag hangs from a vehicle as it moves alongside stationary traffic during a protest against fuel costs near Rodez on Nov. 17.

Photographer: Balint Porneczi/Bloomberg
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The oil market is doing nothing to help French President Emmanuel Macron as he tries to wean his nation off diesel.

Having encouraged diesel consumption for a generation -- helping farmers and those who drive long distances -- France is now increasing taxes at a faster rate for the fuel than it is for gasoline, as Macron’s administration looks to bring taxes for both into line.