French Assembly Divided Over 2025 Budget: €60 Billion Savings Plan Faces Political Turmoil

October 21, 2024
French Assembly Divided Over 2025 Budget: €60 Billion Savings Plan Faces Political Turmoil
  • On October 21, 2024, the French National Assembly commenced discussions on the revenue aspects of the 2025 state budget, which are expected to be contentious.

  • The financial bill for 2025 is under examination in the National Assembly, with significant opposition anticipated from various parties.

  • A tax on the 'super profits' of large corporations was approved in committee, generating discontent among some Macronist deputies.

  • Left-wing parties are pushing to streamline the budget debate, aiming to shift away from austerity measures towards a more acceptable approach.

  • Budget Minister Laurent Saint-Martin criticized the proposed €50 billion tax increase, calling it irresponsible and detrimental to French families and businesses.

  • This upcoming budget could serve as a major flashpoint, as opposition factions are likely to unite against Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government.

  • Barnier has stressed the importance of ensuring that any temporary tax measures do not become permanent, as maintaining economic competitiveness is crucial.

  • Despite claims of achieving equilibrium with €60 billion in savings, many deputies find the government's budget strategy unconvincing.

  • In a positive development for local governments, the committee rejected measures to freeze or cut their revenues, instead granting them an additional €500 million.

  • Without a majority in the National Assembly, Barnier faces considerable resistance to his proposed budget, particularly concerning revenue generation.

  • The Republicans (LR) have proposed aggressive savings of €50 billion, focusing on bureaucratic inefficiencies and immigration costs, complicating negotiations.

  • Macronist lawmakers have suggested selling 10% of the state's shares in listed companies as a means to reduce France's debt, arguing it would yield more revenue than raising corporate taxes.

Summary based on 47 sources


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