French far-right leader Marine Le Pen has issued a warning that she could potentially topple France's minority government by the end of the year unless significant changes are made to the country's budget bill. This statement follows a meeting between Le Pen and conservative Prime Minister Michel Barnier to discuss next year's budget and related matters. Barnier is scheduled to hold discussions with other political leaders from various factions later in the day.
Le Pen has indicated that lawmakers from her National Rally party, including herself, are prepared to table a vote of confidence if the current budget bill under debate in parliament remains unchanged. She outlined specific 'red lines,' such as opposing any increase in electricity taxes and advocating for a rise in state pensions starting in January.
The fate of Barnier's Cabinet hangs in the balance as it relies on the support of the far-right National Rally party to maintain its position. The deadline for passing the budget bill for the upcoming year is set for December 21.
Le Pen emphasized the non-negotiable elements for her party, stating, 'We are clear in our political stance. We stand up for the interests of the French people.'
Following the recent parliamentary elections, the National Assembly is divided into three main blocs: a left-wing coalition, Macron's centrist allies, and the far-right National Rally party, none of which secured an outright majority. Barnier's Cabinet, predominantly comprising members of his Republicans party and centrists from President Emmanuel Macron's alliance, holds just over 210 seats out of 577.
France faces pressure from the European Union to address its substantial debt. Barnier's government aims to reduce the country's deficit from an estimated 6% of GDP to 5% next year through a budget squeeze totaling 60 billion euros ($66 billion).
Last month, the government narrowly survived a confidence vote initiated by the left-wing coalition due to the abstention of the far-right group.
Le Pen's remarks come amid her ongoing trial in Paris, along with other National Rally officials, on charges of misappropriating European Parliament funds. Prosecutors in Paris have requested a 2-year prison sentence for Le Pen, coupled with a 5-year ban on running for public office.
