French Prime Minister François Bayrou faces almost certain defeat in today's confidence vote - throwing the government into crisis and raising serious questions over France's ability to rein in debt and spending. The latest poll numbers suggest a high probability that Macron will seek to name a new prime minister.
Breakdown
- Prime Minister François Birault faces a confidence vote over his proposed budget. 4s
- Opposition and some centrist parties have pledged to vote against Birault. 15s
- The budget includes significant spending cuts to reduce the deficit. 1m 25s
- The Socialist Party, previously a key supporter, will not back Birault in the vote. 1m 55s
- If Birault loses, he could be the fifth prime minister under Macron in 18 months. 2m 25s