France's 2027 budget debate opens in parliament with 5% deficit goal

France's government defended its 2027 budget in the National Assembly on Tuesday, proposing €43 billion in new measures to reach a deficit target of 5% of GDP, while a Socialist Party motion to reject the bill failed. Minister of Economy Roland Lescure opened debate on the revenue section, stating the government is open to compromise with political forces but only if the 5% deficit target is met. Public Accounts Minister David Amiel called it a "safeguard budget" to prevent financial crisis, with ministers' remarks seemingly aimed at reassuring financial markets as much as parliamentarians. The budget faces strong opposition criticism, with LFI's Éric Coquerel denouncing "organized catastrophism" over debt and the RN's Jean-Philippe Tanguy claiming the government cannot structurally reduce spending. Socialists rejected government proposals, demanding fiscal justice measures. The government may resort to Article 49.3 or never-used budget ordinances if no agreement is reached, with potential recourse possible after December 18.