French PM risks political fallout with budget plan bypass
The French Prime Minister, François Bayrou, announced his intention to implement budget and social welfare legislation without a parliamentary vote. Although this decision is in accordance with the constitution, it risks causing the government to collapse, as similar actions in the past have led to political crises.
François Bayrou mentioned in an interview with "La Tribune Dimanche" his plan to proceed without a parliamentary vote. According to PAP, the French constitution permits this action, yet it involves the risk of a vote of no confidence against the government.
France places the budget matter on a knife-edge
Article 49.3 of the Fifth Republic's constitution allows the government to introduce a bill without the consent of parliament. However, parliament can respond within 24 hours by rejecting the proposal through a vote of no confidence. The previous government of Michel Barnier fell following a similar attempt. Nonetheless, the current government stands a better chance of survival due to initial support from the Socialist Party.
"A country like ours cannot remain without a budget," said Bayrou. He added that the government must assume responsibility. "This will happen on Monday," declared the Prime Minister.
The radically left group France Unbowed announced a call for a vote of no confidence, which may receive support from the Communist Party and the Ecologists. It remains unclear how the National Rally will vote. Prime Minister Bayrou emphasised that France cannot stay without a budget, and the government must take responsibility.
