French PM in hot water over migrant 'flooding' gaffe

France's Prime Minister Francois Bayrou answers journalists' questions after a meeting with unions at the Labour Ministry, in Paris, on January 17, 2025.

Prime Minister François Bayrou has come under fire over his remarks on immigration that have sparked controversy, threatening the fragile political alliances that are keeping his government afloat.

Prime Minister François Bayrou is facing a political challenge after his recent comments on immigration stirred controversy across the political spectrum.

His remarks about France being "flooded" with immigrants have put his delicate parliamentary support at risk, particularly from the Socialists who had previously helped him survive a no-confidence vote.

Bayrou, who has been working to maintain a fragile coalition, stated on Monday that while immigration is "a positive" factor, it should be "proportionate" to the country’s population.

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However, his follow-up comment about the perceived "flooding" of France triggered strong reactions.

While some hardliners in the government and the far right supported his statement, centrist allies and the opposition condemned it.

The Socialists – whom Bayrou has been carefully courting to ensure his minority government stays afloat – were particularly vocal in their disapproval.

Now, however, they are reconsidering their stance after his controversial remarks.


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