France's New Prime Minister Survives No-Confidence Vote
France's New Prime Minister Survives No-Confidence Vote
Michel Barnier, France's new prime minister, has survived a no-confidence motion in his first test as head of government. The motion was brought forward by the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition, but failed to gain enough votes due to the abstention of the far-right National Rally. Barnier's government enjoys fragile support in parliament and faces the challenge of getting its first budget proposal approved, which includes tax hikes and spending cuts. The vote has clarified the majority and opposition in the divided parliament, with Barnier's administration being given a chance for now.