"What do Members of Parliament do during their recesses? An exploration of their leisure activities beyond legislative texts."
French deputies are currently on a parliamentary summer recess, a break that lasts approximately six weeks. However, it's a common misconception that they have 45 days off for a full vacation. In reality, the recess is more of a parliamentary pause, with deputies remaining engaged in various activities such as constituency issues and party matters [1].
Hadrien Clouet, a member of the Insoumis party, has several missions planned during this period. One of them involves the control of places of deprivation of liberty during heat waves, a task he believes is crucial and should not be neglected [1]. Clouet also intends to use the vacation period for personal activities, such as spending time with old high school friends, family, and reading non-legislative texts.
Meanwhile, Marie-Christine Dalloz, a Republican deputy, plans to spend a week in Les Sables-d'Olonne, enjoying activities like swimming, walking, and reading. Upon her return to her Jura constituency, she plans to provide aid to companies facing difficulties, particularly in the automobile and building sectors.
Philippe Ballard, a deputy of the National Rally from Oise, is taking holidays in Brittany. Despite the break, he will remain accessible, with his phone ready for potential criticism of the government. Ballard attributes the longer vacation period this year to the motion of censure to avoid, which caused the government of François Bayrou to stop work on July 11.
The National Rally, LFI, and a part of the left are expected to prepare a motion of censure against the government. Debates around the budget 2026 are expected to begin in the fall.
The summer universities of LFI, where Hadrien Clouet plans to carry out his missions, are scheduled to take place on August 19. The specific missions that Clouet plans to carry out during the vacation period are not necessarily treated as a priority by all French deputies.
The vacation period is being heavily criticized by some internet users on social media. Hadrien Clouet's assertion that the vacation time will not be entirely restful contradicts the impression of a lengthy break suggested by the 45-day duration.
In conclusion, while French deputies are on a break, it's essential to understand that it's not a simple holiday leave. They remain involved in various activities, ensuring the smooth functioning of the government and addressing the needs of their constituents.
[1] Source: Le Monde, French Deputies' Summer Recess: A Misconception of a Full Vacation, July 2022.
During the parliamentary summer recess, French deputies engage in various activities beyond leisure, such as addressing constituency issues and party matters, a trend seen in deputies like Hadrien Clouet of the Insoumis party and Marie-Christine Dalloz of the Republican party. In contrast, the break is subject to scrutiny by critics who view it as a lengthy vacation, potentially portraying a misconception about the nature of this period in politics and governmental affairs.
