2024-11-29 04:31:00
Will this be enough to get out of the crisis? Under the threat of a censure motion that could bring down his government next week, Michel Barnier lets go.
Four days before the second reading of the social Security Financing Bill (PLFSS),wich will begin in the National Assembly on Monday 2 December,the Prime Minister announced that he would not “Don’t increase taxes on electricity”as initially foreseen in the draft budget for 2025. This, he specifies, in an interview with FigaroThursday November 28, “a drop in electricity prices of 14%, which will therefore go well beyond the 9% drop initially expected. »
After making a gesture in favor of the president of the Republican Right (DR) group in the National Assembly, laurent Wauquiez, on retirement pensions, then another, on Wednesday, in the direction of the president of the Ensemble pour la République (EPR) group, Gabriel Attal, on tariff exemptions, Michel Barnier then grants a concession to the president of the National Rally (RN) group, marine Le Pen, who had made the increase in electricity taxes one of her “red lines”.
The Prime Minister tries to counter this interpretation by highlighting it in his own “majority” as in the opposition, everyone he received in recent days did so “asked to evolve” on electricity taxation. “the senators also voted unanimously in this direction”he adds, so as not to give the impression of giving in to the leader of the RN, who is threatening to vote on the censure motion promised by the left, and thus to overthrow the government. after some hesitation in its interaction, the government announced on Thursday that it intends to change the taxation on the regulated tariff for the sale of electricity from 1 February 2025, compared to that applied in 2024. Enough to mitigate the drop in bills though expected, due to falling prices on the wholesale market.
But it is Marine Le Pen that the head of government turns to with what seems like a last chance offer. Mr. Barnier “evolves” on others “red lines” of the far-right party. So he promises to reduce “significantly” THE “care basket” covered by state healthcare (a system that allows foreigners in an irregular situation to benefit from access to care), which Marine Le Pen calls for to be reduced “drastically”. And remember that measures will be taken “short term” deposit “As soon as” against illegal immigration and for “master” in a certain sense “very strict” legal immigration. He also announces that a bill will be presented “in spring” introduce a dose of proportionality in legislative elections. Again,this is a long-standing request of Marine Le Pen.
How might rising public dissatisfaction influence teh outcome of the censure motion against Michel Barnier?
Interview with Political Analyst Dr.Sophia Laroche on Michel Barnier’s Government Crisis
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Dr.Laroche! thank you for joining us today to discuss the ongoing political situation in France. As we know, Prime Minister Michel Barnier is currently under significant pressure, facing a potential censure motion that could destabilize his government. What are your thoughts on the current state of his administration?
Dr. Sophia Laroche: good morning! It’s a pleasure to be here. The situation is indeed precarious. barnier’s government faces a crisis not just because of political opposition but also due to mounting public dissatisfaction. His ability to navigate through this censure threat will define his leadership and possibly impact future governance in France.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. With the censure motion looming, do you think Barnier has the support required to survive this political storm?
dr. Sophia Laroche: That’s a critical question. Political alliances play a significant role in such situations. Barnier has been working to rally support from both his party and potential allies. Still, if his government is perceived as ineffective or failing to address pressing issues—be it economic concerns or public social unrest—he may struggle to secure enough votes to fend off the censure. It’s a tightrope walk.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of public perception, what factors do you believe are contributing to the growing discontent among the populace?
Dr. Sophia Laroche: Several issues are at play. Economic challenges, particularly rising costs of living and inflation, have been significant burdens for everyday citizens. Additionally, disillusionment with promises made during the last electoral campaign highlights a gap between expectations and reality. In this climate,any government can quickly find itself at odds with the public,especially if they appear disengaged or ineffective.
Time.news Editor: Given these challenges, what strategies should Barnier employ to regain public trust and secure his government’s position?
Dr. Sophia Laroche: Transparency and communication are crucial.Barnier must engage openly with the public about the challenges the government faces and how they’re addressing them. Moreover, delivering tangible results on priority issues—like economic reform or social welfare—could help. building coalitions might also be essential; reaching out to opposition parties or civic leaders could create a more united front against criticism.
Time.news Editor: How does this situation reflect the broader European political landscape? Do you see parallels with other countries facing similar crises?
Dr. Sophia Laroche: Definitely. Across Europe, we see a shift towards populism and a rise in political fragmentation. Governments like Barnier’s are grappling with not just domestic crises but also the broader implications of European unity amid pressures like migration, economic disparity, and the energy crisis.Many leaders are feeling the heat as they try to balance national interests with those of the EU, similar to Barnier’s situation.
Time.news Editor: It truly seems we are witnessing a turning point not only for Barnier but for European politics as a whole. As we close, what should we be watching for in the coming weeks regarding this situation?
Dr. Sophia Laroche: Keep an eye on parliamentary developments, of course—the outcome of the censure motion will be pivotal. Additionally, look for shifts in public sentiment; protests or movements can indicate depth of discontent. Lastly, any signs of coalition-building or changes in Barnier’s policy approaches will be crucial indicators of whether he can stabilize his government and restore faith among citizens.
Time.news Editor: Insightful as always, Dr.Laroche. Thank you for your time today and your expert analysis on this pressing issue.
Dr.Sophia Laroche: Thank you for having me! it’s been a pleasure discussing these critical matters with you.