Barnier's Government Faces No-Confidence Vote as Le Pen's Ultimatum Over Budget Expires

Dec 2, 2024, 04:49 AM

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government faces a potential motion of censure as the far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, threatens to bring down the government over disagreements on the 2025 budget and the Social Security financing bill. Le Pen has set an ultimatum expiring on Monday for Barnier to make further concessions, particularly on the Social Security budget, and has warned of a motion of censure if her demands are not met. She stated that her party would vote for censure 'unless there is a miracle'. The government is considering invoking Article 49.3 of the Constitution as early as today to pass the budget without a vote, a move that could trigger the no-confidence vote. Marion Maréchal, a National Rally lawmaker, affirmed their readiness to vote for censure if the government does not make any changes. National Rally President Jordan Bardella has toughened the party's stance, increasing the likelihood that the government will be toppled. The situation has escalated over the weekend, with the government under mounting pressure to avoid censure.