France’s President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday evening named Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu as the country’s new prime minister, following the collapse of François Bayrou ’s government.
Bayrou had been appointed less than a year ago, following the ousting of conservative politician and former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier.
Lecornu, who had been tipped for the role last year, will now take the helm amid mounting economic and political pressures.
Bayrou lost his position after failing a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. Just nine months in office, his government collapsed after lawmakers voted 364 against and 194 in favor. The 364 votes exceeded the 280-vote threshold needed to topple his administration.
2026 budget plan crisis
The vote followed Bayrou’s unprecedented call for a confidence motion over his 2026 budget plan. He sought to push through an unpopular 44 billion euros ($51 billion) savings plan, which included scrapping two public holidays and freezing government spending.
“You have the power to overthrow the government, but you do not have the power to erase reality,” Bayrou said in a speech to the National Assembly before the vote.
“Reality will remain inexorable. Spending will continue to increase and the debt burden, already unbearable, will grow heavier and more costly,” he added.
Bayrou had been appointed less than a year ago, following the ousting of conservative politician and former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier.
Lecornu, who had been tipped for the role last year, will now take the helm amid mounting economic and political pressures.
Bayrou lost his position after failing a confidence vote in parliament on Monday. Just nine months in office, his government collapsed after lawmakers voted 364 against and 194 in favor. The 364 votes exceeded the 280-vote threshold needed to topple his administration.
2026 budget plan crisis
The vote followed Bayrou’s unprecedented call for a confidence motion over his 2026 budget plan. He sought to push through an unpopular 44 billion euros ($51 billion) savings plan, which included scrapping two public holidays and freezing government spending.
“You have the power to overthrow the government, but you do not have the power to erase reality,” Bayrou said in a speech to the National Assembly before the vote.
“Reality will remain inexorable. Spending will continue to increase and the debt burden, already unbearable, will grow heavier and more costly,” he added.
You may also like
ECI holds workshop for CEO media officers, stresses on facts over misinformation
Chelsea agree first 2026 summer transfer as Enzo Maresca handed boost after £70m decision
SC to hear plea alleging minor's custodial torture by Gujarat police
India, France resolve to enhance counter-terror cooperation
Vet settles debate on how many times you should actually walk dog per day
