France’s PM to Force Budget Through Parliament in Risky Move

Francois Bayrou will use a controversial constitutional tool, but it could result in a no confidence motion, which brought down the last government.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou (L) delivers a general policy statement to MPs at the National Assembly in Paris on Jan. 14, 2025. Thomas Samson / AFP via Getty Images

French Prime Minister François Bayrou will use special constitutional powers to try to force the 2025 budget, but it is a risky move as it will trigger a no-confidence vote.

Speaking to La Tribune Dimanche on Feb. 2, Bayrou said he will use a controversial constitutional tool called Article 49.3 to pass legislation without a parliamentary vote.