Official statements and media reports

Le Pen Threatens Government Over Budget, Demands Repeal of Pension Reform to Restore Retirement at 62

Nov 20, 2024, 08:51 AM

France's 2025 budget is advancing through contentious parliamentary debates, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen threatening to vote a motion of censure against the Barnier government if the budget "amputates the purchasing power of the French." Le Pen, leader of the National Rally (RN), stated that the use of Article 49.3 to pass the budget without a vote is a "red line" for her party. She indicated that the RN is prepared to align with left-wing parties to oppose the government, saying they will vote censure if necessary. Le Pen also affirmed that the RN will vote for the repeal of President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform to restore the retirement age to 62, stating, "We will vote for it regardless of the origin group of this text." Officials like Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice, have expressed concern over potential government instability, warning that such actions could threaten social and economic stability in France. The budget debates are set to reach a critical point in December, and the Barnier government faces the risk of being toppled if a motion of censure passes.