Éric Lombard: a call for dialogue for a balanced and protective budget

The new minister of economy and finance, Éric Lombard, begins his term by placing dialogue at the heart of his strategy for budget adoption. In an interview with La Tribune Dimanche, he announced his intention to invite all political parties represented in parliament to come to Bercy in the coming days. Accompanied by Amélie de Montchalin, minister of public accounts, he hopes to foster the compromises necessary for the adoption of a credible budget plan.

A clear objective: reducing the deficit while protecting growth
Éric Lombard aims to bring the public deficit to a level “a little above 5% of GDP” while preserving economic growth. To achieve this, he proposes “very limited” tax increases, additional savings, and adjustments to the finance bill initially prepared by the Barnier government. This text was censured in December, but Lombard hopes to revise it to meet the expectations of the opposition and financial markets while avoiding an increase in the number of taxpayers subject to income tax. “The French who do not pay income tax today will not pay it tomorrow,” he assured.

A method based on listening and pragmatism
Aware of political divisions, Éric Lombard says he is ready to listen to all perspectives. “All elected officials are legitimate,” he stated, adding that the order of the discussions will depend on the availability of the parties and their preferences. His office door will remain open until January 14, the date of François Bayrou’s general policy speech, and beyond if necessary.

Referring to recent debates on pension reform, the minister set a strict condition: “The discussions must not increase the deficit of the pension fund.” However, he believes there is “room for maneuver” to find solutions within this constraint.

A crucial mission for the future
Drawing on his experience as the former director general of the Caisse des Dépôts, Éric Lombard intends to use his deep knowledge of elected officials and economic issues to build consensus. He hopes that this constructive dialogue will address the concerns of markets and strengthen French public finances. Finally, he is preparing to face external challenges, including the threat of trade barriers proposed by Donald Trump, emphasizing that “the European Union has the necessary tools to respond vigorously.”

With this inclusive and pragmatic approach, Éric Lombard aspires to make budget construction a collective effort, serving the country’s economic and social stability.