Deputies address overseas territories issues

Deputies resumed their sessions on Monday, focusing on topics related to overseas territories. They discussed amendments aimed at improving social-purpose elderly care homes (Ehpad) and tackling restrictions on accessing audiovisual content in these regions.

Housing and poverty concerns raised

Karine Lebon, representing the Communist and Overseas Territories group, highlighted the challenges of housing access in overseas territories. She noted a high percentage of residents living below the poverty threshold and urged the government to keep an amendment on social homeownership, which has been adopted annually since 2024 but never finalized.

Criticism of Macronist economic policy

Debates included criticism of the Macronist economic policy, following the release of unfavorable growth data by INSEE. Jean-René Cazeneuve of Renaissance defended the policy, claiming that tax cuts for businesses contributed to higher growth in France compared to Europe until 2022.

Opposition calls for policy revision

Eric Coquerel, president of the Finance committee of LFI, criticized the policy as "austerity," arguing it had harmed public spending and purchasing power. He pointed out that wages in France had not increased for years and urged the government to update its budget plan with new growth forecasts for 2027.

Budgetary challenges and amendments passed

The minister of Public Accounts, David Amiel, warned that more budgetary efforts than initially planned would be needed. Left-wing deputies passed two LFI amendments, allowing the state to take stakes in ArcelorMittal and Vinci Autoroutes, despite the government’s opposition.

Uncertain future for proposed measures

With a sparsely attended chamber, deputies are voting on measures they expect may not survive, given the likely rejection of the budget and potential use of article 49.3 or ordinances. Debates are set to continue throughout the week, with a vote on the revenue section scheduled for Tuesday.