We’re closing this blog now.
Barnier has just finished an interview with the French media this evening. Here’s a summary of the key points he made. He:
Rejected the idea that President Emmanuel Macron should resign to unblock the country’s political crisis, calling him the guarantor of stability.
Said he remained open to budget talks with the far-right National Rally and other parties.
Felt the budget had been the subject of work “for weeks and weeks”, adding that “it is not for pleasure that I present such a difficult budget.”
Warned that French people will the impact of instability “immediately” in interest rates.
Said that if a motion of censure succeeds, and no budget is adopted for 2025, nearly 18 millions French people will inevitably see their income taxes increase and others will pay it for the first time.
And said he sees “a lot of tension” in France and “a lot of anger” which we must “be careful of”.
That’s it from me, Donna Ferguson. Thanks for following along.
Barnier rejected the idea that President Emmanuel Macron should resign to unblock the country’s political crisis, calling him the guarantor of stability.
He also called for “respect” in politics and said there was “no glitch” in the negotiations with other politicians to come up with the 2025 budget.
He added: “The moment is serious, it is difficult, but the stakes are not impossible.”
He then ended his interview.
Updated
