Le Pen Intensifies Pressure on Government Before Meeting with Barnier – November 20, 2024, 4:30 PM – Boursorama

Marine Le Pen is increasing pressure on Michel Barnier ahead of a critical meeting, warning that the National Rally will push for a censure vote if the 2025 budget threatens French citizens’ purchasing power. A motion for censure is expected in mid-December, coinciding with the government’s potential use of Article 49.3 to pass the budget without parliamentary approval. Le Pen’s criticism of proposed tax increases and pension changes reflects growing concerns over economic fairness, as tensions rise in the political landscape.

Le Pen Intensifies Pressure on Barnier Ahead of Key Meeting

Marine Le Pen is ramping up her demands on Michel Barnier as they prepare for a pivotal meeting scheduled for Monday at Matignon. She emphasizes that the National Rally (RN) will not shy away from censure against the government if the proposed budget for 2025 threatens to diminish the purchasing power of the French citizens during the holiday season.

“We cannot accept any further reductions to the purchasing power of the French. This is a non-negotiable line,” Le Pen declared during an RTL interview on Wednesday. “Should this line be crossed, we will proceed with a censure vote.”

Potential Censure Vote and Economic Concerns

The motion for censure is expected to be voted on in mid-December, coinciding with the government’s anticipated invocation of Article 49.3 of the Constitution. This would allow them to pass the budget without a parliamentary vote due to insufficient majority support.

If the RN aligns with leftist parties to support this motion, it could lead to the downfall of Barnier’s fragile coalition government, resulting in the rejection of the budget proposal.

Le Pen has criticized the government’s intention to raise electricity taxes by three billion euros, calling it “unacceptable,” a move that was ultimately removed in the first reading by the National Assembly. She also voiced her discontent regarding the proposed pension adjustments, arguing that they unfairly impact retirees.

In the wake of recent tensions, RN officials have made their stance clear, insisting their demands for fiscal fairness have gone unheard. As Barnier prepares to meet with parliamentary leaders next week, starting with Le Pen, he faces the challenge of balancing the budgetary requirements with the growing social unrest among various sectors.

As this high-stakes political drama unfolds, all eyes will be on the National Assembly as the final decision on the 2025 budget approaches, potentially reshaping the political landscape in France.

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