France: François Bayrou Sets Example with Austerity Measures

French Prime Minister François Bayrou has announced a 30% reduction in his office's operating expenses, in an effort to set an example of austerity ahead of a confidence vote in his government on September 8.

This reduction, announced by the Matignon Palace, corresponds to the percentage of spending cuts that Bayrou seeks to incorporate into the 2026 budget, a program that provides for a reduction of 44 billion euros in spending.

According to Adrian Bez in «Le Figaro», communication expenses were reduced by 31%, taxi expenses by 14%, fuel purchases by 44%, catering expenses by 17%, and electronic equipment by 17%. Also, "government flights" have shrunk by 82%.

Bayrou has pledged full transparency regarding politicians' privileges, proposing that former MP René Dosière identify any unjustified advantages.

The Bayrou government faces a crucial vote in the National Assembly on September 8 regarding the austerity program.