FRANCE will fully nationalise electricity giant EDF, its prime minister said today, as the European Parliament voted controversially to include natural gas and nuclear in its list of “sustainable” energy sources.

Both moves are responses to Europe’s deepening energy crisis as Russia’s war against Ukraine and retaliatory sanctions drive prices sky-high — and make the continued flow of gas uncertain.

Elisabeth Borne, who succeeded Jean Castex in France’s number two job in May, told lawmakers the crisis meant “we must have full control over our electricity production and performance. We must ensure our sovereignty in the face of the consequences of the war and the colossal challenges to come. That’s why I confirm the state’s intention to own 100 per cent of EDF’s capital.”