Barnier's Government Faces Confidence Test Amidst Political Turmoil

France's minority government, under new Prime Minister Michel Barnier, is set to endure a no-confidence vote. With the National Assembly fragmented, Barnier relies on the far-right for support while attempting to pass the upcoming budget. The motion, filed by 192 left-wing lawmakers, needs 289 votes to succeed.

France's minority government is bracing for a no-confidence vote on Tuesday, a crucial test for the newly appointed conservative Prime Minister Michel Barnier. His administration struggles to maintain power, heavily depending on the far-right National Rally for support.

The government's primary hurdle is to pass the budget for the next fiscal year amid a lack of parliamentary majority. Following closely contested parliamentary elections in June-July, France's National Assembly is split among the New Popular Front, President Emmanuel Macron's centrist allies, and the far-right National Rally, with none securing an outright majority.

The no-confidence motion has been tabled by a coalition of 192 lawmakers from the New Popular Front, who argue the appointment of Barnier disregards their electoral gains. The motion demands 289 votes to succeed, but with the National Rally abstaining, Barnier's government currently seems poised to survive this political storm.

(With inputs from agencies.)