French President Emmanuel Macron is preparing to name a new prime minister after Michel Barnier’s resignation. To ensure government operations continue into 2025, Barnier’s cabinet introduced an emergency budget bill during their final meeting on Wednesday.

Emergency Bill to Prevent Government Shutdown

The special bill addresses critical budgetary needs for 2024 and allows the government to keep collecting taxes and duties until a new finance law is passed. The proposal will be debated in the National Assembly on Monday and the Senate on Wednesday.

“This bill lets us avoid a shutdown,” explained Laurent Saint-Martin, Minister Delegate for the Budget and Public Accounts.

Uncertainty Around New PM Appointment

Macron previously promised to appoint Barnier’s successor by Thursday. However, government spokesperson Maud Bregeon declined to confirm the exact timing, stressing that Macron’s focus is on ensuring stability during the transition.

Syria’s Situation Discussed

During the meeting, ministers also addressed the evolving situation in Syria. Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called for a peaceful transition while emphasizing the need to combat extremism.

As France prepares for a leadership change, the emergency budget bill aims to prevent disruptions and maintain government stability.