French government to push through controversial economic reforms

The French government is expected to force through a package of key economic reforms in parliament. In order to push through these reforms, which are the brainchild of Economy minister Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Manuel Valls is set to resort to a constitutional provision to get it passed without a vote.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls (right) is set to use a constitutional provision to pass the Macron Law without a vote. Reuters/Charles Platiau

The law has generated considerable debate in the country with the government stating its importance to shore up the French economy.

While some of the opponents term the package as too liberal, others say the government didn’t indulge in discussion and consensus on it.

According to economist Jean Joseph Boillot, the lack of consensus was a major issue.

“You cannot implement reforms without a strong consensus. Trade unions from both sides are opposing the reforms not necessarily because of the text but because of lack of discussions,” he told RFI.

Boillot added that given the division in France regarding these reforms, a win-win situation is necessary.

The opposition right-wing party ‘The Republicans’ led by former president Nicolas Sarkozy has already said it will put down a motion of no-confidence

While in theory, a no-confidence motion could bring the government down, Boillot said that there’s very little chance of it working.

“I don’t think the no confidence motion will be effective as a part of the centrist parties are supporting the reforms. Some of the Republicans may not vote during the no-confidence motion and the socialists won’t take a risk on it,” he said.