French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou announced on Monday that he will seek a vote of confidence in parliament on September 8, as he attempts to rally support for his minority government’s budget, raising political uncertainty in France.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of what is expected to be a turbulent autumn, Bayrou proposed cutting over €40 billion in spending, a move that has angered both left- and right-wing opposition parties, according to Reuters.
“We are facing an immediate risk that must be addressed… otherwise we have no future,” Bayrou said, highlighting the nation’s debt burden.
“Our country is at risk,” he added.
The confidence vote will focus on whether lawmakers take the threat seriously and choose the path forward to address it.
Last month, Bayrou unveiled an aggressive €43.8 billion budget tightening for next year, aimed at reducing the 2026 deficit to 4.6% of GDP.
However, the plan has provoked anger among opposition parties, some of which have threatened to topple Bayrou unless significant changes are made.
The Prime Minister also faces the threat of mass protests and a planned national strike on September 10, adding further pressure on his administration.
