France's Macron 'respects' star minister's resignation France President Emmanuel Macron says he "respects" his environment minister's surprise decision to resign, and hopes to count on his commitment "in another way." Nicolas Hulot, who made his name as an environmental campaigner, was lured into government last year by Macron, but repeatedly clashed with his cabinet colleagues over policy. He had not informed Macron or Prime Minister Edouard Philippe of his plans to quit. SOUNDBITE