France’s National Assembly Approves 2026 Budget Despite Censure Motions

(MENAFN) France’s National Assembly approved the expenditure portion of the 2026 state budget Tuesday, despite facing two censure motions triggered by the government’s use of Article 49.3 of the constitution, which allows legislation to pass without a parliamentary vote, as stated by reports.

The first motion, brought by left-wing deputies, was rejected with 267 votes, falling short of the 289 needed. The second, tabled by the far-right National Rally (RN), also failed, securing only 140 votes. Last Friday, the government of Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu survived similar no-confidence attempts against the budget’s revenue section.

The Socialist Party, which welcomed concessions in the latest budget draft, opted not to support the left-wing censure motion. During the debate, Lecornu emphasized that after “over 350 hours of discussion, there were no credible alternatives” to the government’s plan.

Following the Assembly’s approval, the budget is set for Senate review on Thursday, returning to the Assembly on Friday for final ratification.

France has faced months of political uncertainty over the 2026 budget, with motions of no confidence increasing tensions within the governing coalition. Lecornu, who assumed office last year, has repeatedly stated that his priority is to maintain political stability while passing key economic reforms, including the budget package.

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