Joseph was not surprised.
France had recently faced total war, and military expenses alone had nearly drained the treasury. Naturally, funding for new projects had been reduced as well.
He consoled the institute director. "Once this World Cup is over, the financial situation will improve. The Engineering Design Institute will be given top priority for funding."
"That would be wonderful. Thank you, Your Highness!" Cano hurriedly bowed, then added hesitantly, "It is just that the Ministry of Industry has asked us to cancel nearly one-third of our projects within this month. Some of them are already close to producing results..."
"Oh?" Joseph stopped walking and frowned. "Why cancel so many? Is it because of funding?"
Under France's current administrative system, project reviews and funding approvals for the Engineering Design Institute were both handled by the Ministry of Industry.
Cano nodded, but before he could say anything else, he saw Mirabeau and Tressaguet hurrying over with several subordinates.
The previous night, Joseph had confirmed with his father that the design and testing of the new Steam Forging Machine had essentially been completed. A production line could be set up for mass production at any time, so he had sent someone to summon the heads of the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Transport to arrange the matter.
Eman had then reminded him that it was already one thirty in the morning, so he had no choice but to have them come first thing in the morning instead.
After Mirabeau and the others stepped forward and paid their respects, Joseph first brought up the institute's projects. "Investment in technological research and development is second in importance only to war. No matter how tight the funds are, projects should not be canceled lightly. Let alone canceling a full third at once—this will