French PM risks no confidence vote after forcing through budget

French PM Faces No Confidence Vote After Forcing Budget Bill

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has triggered a political crisis by invoking special constitutional powers to pass the controversial 2025 budget bill. The move bypassed a parliamentary vote, setting the stage for a likely no confidence vote that could collapse his minority government.

The radical left opposition party, France Unbowed (LFI), has already announced plans to table the motion, supported by Marine Le Pen’s National Rally (RN). The vote could take place as early as Wednesday, threatening Barnier’s leadership.

The Controversial Budget Bill

The proposed budget aims to tackle France’s growing deficit with €60bn (£49bn) in tax hikes and spending cuts. Among the measures were:

• Scrapping electricity tax hikes after backlash.
• Revised prescription drug reimbursements, set to take effect next year.

Despite these concessions, opposition remained strong, with the RN joining left-wing parties in rejecting the bill.

Using Article 49.3 of the French Constitution, Barnier circumvented parliament, a move often criticized for undermining democratic processes.

Political Fallout and Opposition Stances

Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right RN, criticized Barnier for ignoring her party’s 11 million voters.
“Barnier didn’t listen… He said everyone should assume their responsibility, and that’s what we’ll do,” Le Pen declared.

The leftist New Popular Front, outraged by President Macron’s decision to appoint Barnier, also vowed to oppose the government. The alliance had emerged as the largest parliamentary bloc after the early elections in July.

What Happens Next?

If Barnier loses the no confidence vote, he will remain as caretaker PM until President Emmanuel Macron forms a new government. Options include:

• A new majority government, though unlikely given the fractured parliament.
• A technocratic government to manage the country until the 2024 summer elections.

There are increasing calls for early presidential elections, but Macron is constitutionally set to remain in office until 2027.

First Paragraph with Keyphrase:
French PM Michel Barnier has triggered a no confidence vote after using Article 49.3 to pass a controversial budget bill, risking his minority government’s future.

External Link:
Read more about the unfolding political drama at BBC.

Internal Link:
Explore the broader implications of government crises at Kenkou Land.