Bayrou considers referendum on France's budget reform plans

French Prime Minister François Bayrou has proposed the possibility of a national referendum to secure public backing for a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing France’s debt and bringing the public deficit below 3 percent of GDP. Facing mounting pressure to find €40 billion in savings for the 2026 budget, Bayrou emphasized that broad public support is essential for the plan's success, given the scale of spending cuts and the likelihood of public backlash—especially from trade unions and opposition parties. He argued that previous piecemeal reforms have failed, calling instead for a clear and unified strategy focused on efficiency and simplification, rather than new taxes. Bayrou acknowledged that only the president can officially call a referendum, but stated the government could propose it, underscoring the importance of nationwide engagement on such a consequential issue. His remarks come amid political tension, with threats of no-confidence motions and memories of past protests over austerity measures. The Élysée Palace has not yet commented on Bayrou’s proposal, which could significantly influence France’s political and fiscal landscape.