French minister defends 5% budget deficit, faces challenges in passing it without parliamentary approval as debt concerns grow.
Minister defends 5% budget goal
The French minister defended the government's plan to achieve a 5% budget deficit, emphasizing its importance for France despite concerns about rising national debt and its impact on international markets. Constitutional tool considered
With no majority in the National Assembly, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu may use Article 49 paragraph 3 of the Constitution, which allows passing legislation without a vote, provided the PS or RN do not vote against it. Alternative route of ordinances
The government could also use ordinances to pass the budget without parliamentary approval, a move unprecedented under the Fifth Republic. However, the minister expressed reservations, calling it a "safety glider of the budget highway." Committee rejects budget revisions
On Friday, the National Assembly committee rejected the revised "revenues" section of the budget by near-unanimity, though the original government version will be reconsidered on Tuesday without immediate consequences. Budget exceeds deficit target
The revised budget exceeded the deficit target by over eight billion euros, a point criticized by the minister and echoed by the minister of Public Accounts in a recent media appearance. Grace period for non-European foreigners
The minister addressed a one-year grace period for non-European foreigners regarding benefit payments, calling it a gesture aimed at the National Rally. He clarified it resulted from discussions with the "republican right," not the National Rally. Minister acknowledges budget compromises
While not fully comfortable with the measure, the minister affirmed his commitment to defending the overall budget, stating that France’s current political fragmentation requires a spirit of coalition to move forward.
