The leader of France’s right-wing party, Marine Le Pen, reiterated on Monday her threat to withdraw her party’s support for the government if a vote of no confidence is brought forward.
This statement followed unsuccessful negotiations with Prime Minister Michel Barnier, which failed to meet the demands of Le Pen’s “National Rally” regarding amendments to the budget proposal. Le Pen stressed that the talks yielded no results and expressed skepticism about reaching a compromise on the 2025 budget.
Opposition parties, including the “National Rally,” are threatening to overthrow Barnier’s government, which is struggling to pass the budget amid its fragile coalition. The plan aims to save €60 billion by raising taxes and cutting spending to reduce the budget deficit from over 6% to 5% of GDP next year.
Le Pen’s party stated that it would back efforts to remove the government if its demands are not met. Previously, Le Pen emphasized her opposition to increasing taxes on households, entrepreneurs and retirees.
In the tense political climate, the prime minister may invoke Article 49.3 of the Constitution to pass the budget without parliamentary approval. However, this move could trigger a vote of no confidence.
