French government faces collapse as left and far-right submit no-confidence motions

The French government is on the brink of collapse as far-right and left-wing parties filed no-confidence motions against Prime Minister Michel Barnier. Barnier, who took office in September, faces criticism over a social security bill he attempted to pass without a parliamentary vote. With both parties combining their votes, his government is likely to fall in Wednesday’s vote, marking the first such collapse since 1962.

Barnier’s minority government relied on far-right support, which ended over disagreements on a proposed budget with 60 billion euros in tax hikes and spending cuts. If the no-confidence vote passes, Barnier must resign, though President Macron may appoint him as a caretaker until a new prime minister is chosen. Budget issues remain unresolved, and options to manage them risk further political turmoil.

Source : CGTN