France Retains Benefits for Former Presidents and Prime Ministers in 2025 Budget

A Senate proposal to eliminate perks for ex-leaders was rejected by a parliamentary commission, preserving millions in annual expenditures.

The parliamentary commission rejected a Senate amendment to cut benefits for former presidents and prime ministers, preserving an estimated €2.8 million in annual expenditures.
The benefits include state-funded chauffeurs, office rentals, and staff for ex-presidents, and secretaries and transportation for ex-prime ministers.
Proponents of the amendment argued the cuts were symbolic of fiscal responsibility during a time of national budgetary constraints.
Critics of the proposal, including current Prime Minister François Bayrou, cited the need for stability and security for former leaders as justification for retaining the perks.
The amendment's sponsor, Senator Nathalie Goulet, vowed to reintroduce the proposal in the 2026 budget discussions.