France’s Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has proposed removing two public holidays from the country’s schedule as part of a radical plan to reduce its massive debt and balance its budget. The measures aim to cut €43.8 billion in spending and bring France’s deficit under 3% by 2029.
Bayrou emphasized the need for collective effort to boost the economy, reduce the growing national debt, and prevent it from becoming “crushed” by debt. The proposed measures include freezing government spending except for debt servicing and defense sector increases, capping welfare spending, and reducing healthcare costs.
The plan is expected to face significant resistance due to concerns over its impact on France’s history, social fabric, and working-class citizens. Critics from various parties have condemned the proposals as “provocative,” “unacceptable,” and “brutal.”
Bayrou faces an uncertain future if he cannot secure support for his budget plans in parliament. The opposition has already threatened to challenge his government through a no-confidence motion as early as October, when the detailed budget bill is due to be presented to the legislature.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/15/france-public-holidays-easter-ve-budget-economy-debt