French PM Barnier Bypasses Parliament to Pass Budget Bill, Risks No-Confidence Vote

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has invoked special powers to enact a social security budget bill without parliamentary approval, a move likely to prompt a no-confidence vote against his minority government.

The radical left France Unbowed (LFI) opposition party has declared it will initiate the no-confidence vote this afternoon, potentially occurring as soon as Wednesday. Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally (RN) has also announced its support for the vote.

Despite last-minute concessions, Barnier did not believe he could secure sufficient support for his budget bill. The bill aims to address France’s growing deficit with €60bn (£49bn) in tax increases and spending cuts, including the removal of a planned electricity tax hike and a less generous prescription drug reimbursement policy from next year.

The New Popular Front, a coalition of various left-wing parties, emerged victorious against Macron’s supporters and the far right in early elections in July. This alliance has been outraged by Macron’s decision to appoint Barnier, a centrist, as Prime Minister and has vowed to vote against his government.

As a result, Barnier has had to rely on the RN for his government’s survival. Utilising article 49.3 of the French constitution, which permits passing a bill without a vote, Barnier pushed through his 2025 budget after the RN sided with the left in opposition.

Addressing MPs on Tuesday, Barnier stated, “I don’t think the French people will forgive us for choosing party interests over the future of the country.

“Now, everybody will need to assume their responsibility as I have assumed mine.”

Marine Le Pen explained the RN’s stance, “Barnier didn’t listen to the 11 million voters of the RN… He said everyone should assume their own responsibility, and that’s what we will do.”

Barnier was appointed by President Emmanuel Macron in September. Should Barnier fail to survive Wednesday’s vote, he will serve as a caretaker Prime Minister until Macron announces a new government. This could lead to a new majority government, unlikely due to the fractured parliament, or a technocratic government to guide the country until new elections next summer. Several parties are also calling for early presidential elections, although Macron is scheduled to remain in office until 2027.

Frances Ibiefo

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