politico.eu
French Government Explores Special Law to Avoid Shutdown After Barnier Censure
Following the censure of the Barnier government in France, a special law is being considered to avoid a shutdown, enabling the collection of taxes and funding of essential services, while raising questions regarding the inclusion of additional measures like indexing income tax to inflation and the potential use of Article 16 of the constitution.
- What are the constitutional precedents and legal frameworks available to the government in addressing the budget crisis?
- The proposed special law is based on articles 47.4 and 45 of the organic law on finance laws, allowing for the collection of existing taxes and funding of essential services. A 1979 precedent saw a special law used to maintain government function after a finance law was rejected, but the current situation is complicated by the difficulty in achieving parliamentary consensus.
- What measures will the French government use to avoid a government shutdown after the censure of the Barnier government?
- Following the censure of the Barnier government, a special law is being considered to avoid a government shutdown. This law would allow the government to collect existing taxes and fund essential public services. Adding other provisions, such as indexing income tax to inflation, would require parliamentary approval and might face constitutional challenges.
- What are the potential long-term political and economic consequences of the current governmental crisis, and what contingency plans are available to the French President?
- The current political deadlock raises the possibility of an extended period operating with 2023-2024 budget allocations, potentially lasting until July 2025 when the President could dissolve parliament. Invoking Article 16 of the Constitution, granting the President emergency powers, remains a legal option but would be politically risky. The uncertainty also raises questions regarding the timing of potential new legislative elections if a new President were to take office.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the discussion primarily through the lens of constitutional legality. While this is important, it gives less weight to the political ramifications and potential social consequences of a governmental shutdown. The emphasis on legal solutions over political compromises might unintentionally downplay the importance of political negotiations and potential broader societal impacts.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, employing legal and political terminology appropriately. The author avoids emotionally charged language, except for the use of words like "shutdown", which is in direct quotation of an established term. Overall, the language accurately reflects the complexity and seriousness of the subject matter.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the legal and constitutional aspects of the French government's potential shutdown, providing detailed analysis of potential solutions like special legislation and the use of ordinances. However, it omits analysis of the broader political context, such as public opinion on the budget or the potential consequences of a prolonged shutdown beyond the immediate economic impacts. The lack of discussion on potential social unrest or international reactions is a notable omission. While brevity may be a factor, this omission limits the scope of understanding.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy in its discussion of the President's potential use of Article 16. It frames the decision as a simple choice between using Article 16 or facing a prolonged shutdown, neglecting the possibility of alternative solutions, compromise, or negotiation with the Parliament. This simplifies the political complexities involved.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the French government's response to a political crisis, focusing on constitutional procedures to maintain government functions and avoid a shutdown. The smooth functioning of these processes, even in times of political instability, directly contributes to stable and effective institutions, a core element of SDG 16.