©️RFI
Paris, September 8, 2025.- The French Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has committed the responsibility of his government in a context of strong parliamentary opposition, while France faces a historical public deficit and a controversial economy plan.
On Monday, September 8, 2025, François Bayrou presented his general policy speech to the National Assembly, calling for a vote of confidence. The government risks a fall, which would make Bayrou the Prime Minister of the Fifth Republic to be overthrown by this procedure.
In his 45-minute speech, the Prime Minister stressed the urgency of controlling public finances and implementing a €44 billion savings plan, including the abolition of two public holidays. He recalled that France has not had a balanced budget in 51 years and that the national debt now stands at €3,415 billion.
The response of the parliamentary groups was hostile: France, the Socialist Party and the National Rally announced that they would vote against confidence. Even within the moderate right, some Members criticize the method adopted.
A fall in the government could increase financial uncertainty, particularly before Fitch's assessment of the sovereign rating scheduled for September 12. The government deficit remains close to 6% of GDP, making François Bayrou's recovery plan urgent.
The vote of confidence, scheduled from 7 p.m. (Paris time), will be a real test for the Prime Minister and his government. Bayrou stressed the need for a minimum compromise between political forces in order to break the budgetary deadlock in France.
R.J.
