France's Prime Minister Lecornu encounters stalemate in budget discussions - Workers' safety from ionizing radiation risks remains unaddressed by the Commission, as they have yet to approve a directive for such protection.
In the heart of political turmoil, France's new Prime Minister, Olivier Faure, has announced several measures in response to demands from the left-green camp. The announcements come at a critical juncture, as Faure engages in budget negotiations and braces for a significant strike called by trade unions on Thursday.
Faure has decided to slightly reduce the privileges of former prime ministers. From now on, their lifelong right to a government car and driver will be limited to ten years. This decision is part of Faure's efforts to streamline public expenditure and address public concerns about excessive privileges for political elites.
The Socialist Party (PS), playing a crucial role in the budget negotiations, is demanding an end to austerity measures, higher taxation of large fortunes, more purchasing power, and a genuine ecological transition. The PS is referring to a survey that shows 86% of respondents support a two percent tax on wealth over 100 million euros, known as the Zucman tax. However, current Finance Minister Éric Lombard has ruled out the Zucman tax but aims for "more tax fairness."
The PS is using its position as a swing vote to secure concessions from the government. Originally, Bayrou planned to save 44 billion euros, but the PS has presented a counter-proposal that would save only 22 billion euros and would impose heavier taxes on large companies and the super-rich.
The PS's stance has not been without controversy. Fitch has downgraded France's credit rating, citing concerns about the country's debt-to-GDP ratio, which currently stands at approximately 114 percent. This is a significant increase from last year's deficit of 5.8 percent of the GDP.
The political landscape is further complicated by the upcoming meetings. Lecornu, the French Prime Minister, is scheduled to meet with representatives from the Greens, right-wing populists, and communists on Wednesday. The Paris police chief has warned of numerous troublemakers and possible riots, given more than 250 demonstrations have been announced nationwide.
Despite these challenges, Faure has also announced his decision to abandon the proposal to scrap two public holidays. This move is expected to appease some of the public discontent and could potentially ease tensions ahead of the strike.
On Thursday, many teachers, schools in Paris, and truck blockades are expected to participate in the strike. A massive turnout is anticipated, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing budget negotiations and political landscape in France.
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