French Government Faces Budget Negotiations After Bayrou’s Departure
France’s government is confronting significant challenges in budget negotiations following the ousting of François Bayrou, as officials consider drafting a new budget to satisfy both the center-left Socialists and conservative parties, reports 24brussels.
An anonymous source close to Prime Minister Lecornu indicated that the government will not support Bayrou’s initial budget proposal, which aimed to eliminate public holidays. Instead, Lecornu’s team is contemplating a completely new budget to maintain negotiations with the Socialists, who represent a crucial political ally.
President Emmanuel Macron is supportive of Lecornu’s approach. Following Bayrou’s resignation, Macron emphasized the need for careful reevaluation of the budget strategy in private comments, signaling a shift in priorities.
The government is tasked with creating a budget that aligns with both Les Républicains and the Socialists, despite their stark differences regarding the management of France’s €3.3 trillion debt. Compounding the situation is a budget deficit projected at 5.4 percent of the gross domestic product for the year.
Lecornu has committed to “more serious work” with opposition parties, striving to demonstrate willingness for concessions in order to gain broader support.
