Initiated deliberations concerning proportion-based approaches, by Mr Bayrou.
In a turn of events shaking France's political landscape, François Bayrou recently initiated talks with National Rally (RN) reps regarding proportional representation – a topic that's been a bone of contention for decades. Since the birth of the Fifth Republic, deputies have been elected through the two-round majority uninominal system, save for 1986.
Prime Minister's meetings with political party leaders and group presidents are on the cards, with the order of visits determined by numerical significance. Marine Le Pen, following a 45-minute chat with the PM, stated that a department-based proportional system, like in 1986, would be a "lesser evil" compared to the current majority system that disregards each French vote. "I have a feeling that the debate on this 86 voting system will resurface," she added, hinting at the RN’s readiness to defend this system should it be reinstated.
RN had previously demanded proportionality alongside a majority bonus for leading lists, a provision not inherent in the 1986 system. During the discussions, Marine Le Pen clarified that the PM didn't commit to this point. The RN leader also questioned the motives of parties long advocating for proportionality but now apparently considering backing away due to "personal political calculations".
Bayrou will continue consultations on Thursday, hosting Gabriel Attal and Pierre Cazeneuve, key figures from Macron’s movement. The duo has expressed concerns about the distortion between votes and number of deputies and considers proportionality while abolishing the cumulation of mandates counterproductive. Macron’s supporters might not contradict him on such a crucial subject, according to Le Pen.
Simultaneously, Messrs. Attal and Cazeneuve plan to bring up the effectiveness of public action, mentioning the reduction of parliamentarians and simplification of bureaucracy. However, they oppose proposing proportionality in exchange for mandate cumulation, a proposition strongly supported by François Bayrou.
Philippe, president of the Horizons party, leans toward the majority system, which strengthens the bond between a deputy and their electors. They might support proportionality if the possibility of cumulating local executive and parliamentary mandates is re-established.
The Libertés, indépendants, outre-mer et territoires (LIOT) group vehemently opposes the reform, while Les Républicains remain staunch opponents as well. The Socialist Party is divided about proportional representation, with ex-President François Hollande in favor.
The ongoing debate revolves around whether proportional representation could help counter the RN's growing influence or lead to perpetual political chaos. Bayrou argues that complex issues demand more thoughtful solutions than confrontation, while critics warn that proportional representation could amplify far-right or left-wing blocs.
- François Bayrou, during his talks with National Rally representatives, advocated for proportional representation, a policy-and-legislation issue that has been a contentious topic for decades.
- Marine Le Pen, after a meeting with the Prime Minister, suggested that a department-based proportional system like the one used in 1986 could be a "lesser evil" compared to the current majority system.
- During discussions, Marine Le Pen made it clear that the Prime Minister did not commit to the National Rally's demand for proportionality alongside a majority bonus for leading lists.
- Bayrou will continue consultations with key figures from Macron’s movement, who have expressed concerns about the distortion between votes and number of deputies and consider proportionality while abolishing the cumulation of mandates counterproductive.
