THE French Prime Minister, Mr Alain Juppe seeking to unite a fractious centre right coalition behind his government, said yesterday he would seek a vote of confidence in his economic policy when parliament reconvenes next week after the summer recess.
"To renew the contract that unites us for this legislative period, especially in the eyes of the French public, I will seek a confidence vote in the National Assembly after a policy statement at the start of the new session," Mr Juppe told a meeting of the UDF junior coalition party. The session begins next Tuesday.
Since the coalition holds four fifths of the seats in the 577 member assembly, the outcome is a foregone conclusion. However Mr Juppe's tactic appeared aimed at silencing sniping at his austerity policies from party critics, including the former minister, Mr Charles Pasqua, and the outspoken UDF free marketeer, Mr Alain Madelin.
Several coalition politicians have criticised Mr Juppe's planned income tax cuts as inadequate and sought a change in economic priorities to boost sluggish growth and combat record 12.5 per cent unemployment.
Mr Juppe also said he would next month put forward a bill cracking down on illegal immigration. It would widen the definition of clandestine work, give more powers and strengthen legal sanctions.