France cool on efforts by Australia to repair Aukus rift damage

Elysee says future talks must have substance after Canberra's decision to cancel submarine contract

France has said any future talks between Emmanuel Macron and the Australian prime minister, Scott Morrison, over the fallout from Canberra's decision to tear up a 56bn (48bn) submarine deal will have to be seriously prepared" and have substance".

The Elysee Palace has denied it is refusing to take Morrison's calls, saying the president is always available to talk on the phone", but has admitted it is not in any hurry to resume contact with Canberra.