French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has issued a stark warning to Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government, threatening to initiate its collapse over contentious budget proposals. The National Rally leader’s ultimatum centres on proposed tax increases affecting essential items including electricity, medicines, and healthcare services.
Speaking to RTL radio, Le Pen emphasised that protecting French citizens’ purchasing power represents an absolute “red line” for her party. She declared her readiness to support a no-confidence motion should the government proceed with its controversial fiscal measures.
The political tension has escalated following weeks of unproductive parliamentary debates regarding Barnier’s financial recovery plans. With 124 seats and 16 allied MPs, Le Pen’s National Rally holds significant influence over any potential no-confidence vote. The party’s alignment with the leftist Nouveau Front, which has already committed to filing a no-confidence motion, could prove decisive in toppling the government.
Barnier’s draft budget, unveiled in September, outlines €60bn in spending cuts and tax increases targeting corporations and wealthy individuals. The proposal aims to address France’s growing deficit concerns, which have raised alarms in Brussels and amongst financial market observers.
Political analyst Bruno Cautrès describes Barnier’s position as “very fragile” merely three months into his premiership. The budget has faced widespread criticism, even from parties traditionally aligned with the government, suggesting a precarious path forward for the administration.
Le Pen’s strategic positioning appears twofold: securing policy concessions while maintaining credibility with her voter base. The upcoming meeting between Barnier and Le Pen, scheduled for Monday, may prove crucial in determining whether France faces yet another period of political upheaval.
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