Summary
Outgoing French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is working to prevent new parliamentary elections in France. He has been engaging in talks with various political parties to reach an agreement on passing a budget to tackle France's public debt. Lecornu's resignation adds to political instability, complicating the situation for President Emmanuel Macron's government.
Key Facts
- Sébastien Lecornu resigned as France's Prime Minister after only 26 days in office.
- France is facing political instability, with a need to agree on a budget to address a significant government deficit.
- Lecornu has until Wednesday evening to propose a plan to stabilize the government.
- Political parties show some willingness to agree on a budget by the end of the year.
- France's public debt is nearly 114% of its economic output, with a projected budget deficit of 5.4% of GDP for this year.
- Socialist leaders are unwilling to join a new government under the current budget plan.
- President Macron has called for potential snap elections, leaving a hung parliament.
- There is speculation that Lecornu could gain support by pausing pension reforms, but this would increase costs.
