France limits lifetime benefits for former prime ministers

ISTANBUL

The French government's official journal published a decree Wednesday that limits lifetime benefits for former prime ministers.

"The decree limits the period during which Prime Ministers are entitled to a company car and a driver to ten years from the date of leaving office," it noted.

The rule will take effect Jan. 1 and will apply to former prime ministers who have left office more than 10 years ago.

The decree came two days after newly appointed Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced it on the US social media company, X.

"While it is reasonable for the Republic to protect individuals who face threats, it is not acceptable for them to receive lifetime benefits simply because of a temporary position. Police protection will now be granted to former prime ministers and interior ministers only for a limited period, and extended based on the actual level of risk," he said.

He noted that all other resources previously available to former prime ministers for life will now be provided for a limited period.

Controversial national budget plan

France is facing mounting political tensions as former Prime Minister Francois Bayrou lost a confidence vote Sept. 8 in the National Assembly.

Bayrou, who unveiled a 2026 budget framework in July, was seeking support for a plan to save nearly €44 billion ($51 billion) as part of efforts to reduce soaring public debt, now at 113% of GDP.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu as the new prime minister. He has been tasked with holding consultations with political parties before forming his government.

France has one of the EU’s largest budget deficits at 5.8% of GDP.

Budget negotiations have been a major source of tension in French politics.

The failure to reach an agreement on the 2025 budget last year led to the collapse of the Michel Barnier government in December after left-wing and far-right parties united behind a no-confidence motion.