Embattled French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has called on MPs from across the political spectrum to show responsibility during his no confidence motion vote set for Wednesday.
"It is possible to have a reflex of responsibility that recognises a higher interest beyond political differences," the Prime Minister stated during an interview with TF1 and France 2 from his office at Matignon. He emphasised the importance of the nation’s welfare, saying: "The country’s superior interest, the common good, the national interest, these things matter."
The four leaders of the groups comprising the left-wing Nouveau Front Populaire (NFP), along with 181 of their colleagues, filed a motion of no confidence on Monday, aiming to topple the Barnier government this week. They received support from the far-right National Rally, who also submitted their own motion.
The motion follows Barnier's invocation of Article 49.3 of the Constitution to pass the 2025 Social Security budget without a parliament vote, due to intense opposition. It will be defended by Finance Committee Chairman Eric Coquerel (LFI) and is expected to be debated on Wednesday, pending approval from the conference of presidents on Tuesday.
Barnier dismissed the idea of being reappointed as Prime Minister if his government falls, questioning the use of such a scenario. The left-wing alliance NFP had won the most seats in the summer's elections, but were denied a Prime Minister role by Macron, choosing conservative Barnier from The Republicans instead.
"I want to serve. It is a great honour, but what sense does it make to be reappointed as if nothing happened?" Barnier stated. "If I fall today or tomorrow, should I just return as if nothing has changed?"
He noted that the current situation extends beyond his personal role, mentioning the challenging budget circumstances he encountered upon his appointment, with a deficit projected to reach 6.1% of GDP in 2024.
Barnier warned of the serious repercussions if the no confidence motion passes and the social security budget is rejected.
"Eighteen million French people will see their income tax increase if the 2025 budget is not adopted," he asserted. The French PM also warned about the immediate impact on interest rates due to political instability.
The Prime Minister denied engaging in "bargaining" or "blackmail" with the National Rally, accusing its leader Marine Le Pen of attempting to escalate the situation.
"There was listening and a sort of negotiation," Barnier explained. "I always said the budget was perfectible. We listened to everyone and made progress on many points."
