Lecornu Suspends Pension Reform and Commits to Parliamentary Debate in October 2025 Policy Speech

On October 14, 2025, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu delivered a pivotal general policy speech to the National Assembly addressing France's urgent social, economic, and ecological challenges. Central to his address was the announcement of the suspension of the contentious 2023 pension reform until after the 2027 presidential election. This suspension, which halts the raise in retirement age and maintains the insurance duration at 170 quarters until January 2028, is estimated to cost €400 million in 2026 and €1.8 billion in 2027, benefiting approximately 3.5 million French citizens.

Lecornu emphasized the importance of collaborative governance and ruled out the use of the controversial Article 49.3, which allows legislation to pass without a parliamentary vote. He underscored a fresh approach by promoting a 'government of mission' that proposes policies, debates with Parliament, and allows parliamentary voting, marking a departure from previous executive styles. He declared, "The government will propose, we will debate, you will vote," signaling a real power-sharing with the legislature.

Fiscal discipline was a key theme, with Lecornu setting a target to reduce the public deficit to below 5% of GDP by 2026, specifically aiming for 4.7%. He acknowledged anomalies in wealth taxation and proposed a special contribution from France's richest citizens to fund investment and combat fraud. A new law against fraud and a forthcoming decentralization act to enhance local governance and fiscal responsibilities were also promised.

Additionally, Lecornu announced plans to constitutionalize the Bougival agreements relating to New Caledonia by the end of the year. The Prime Minister urged parliamentary unity despite political differences, aiming for innovation and cooperation to stabilize governance and public services amidst multiple crises.

This pragmatic and determined tone signals Lecornu’s intent to offer stability and methodical crisis management, diverging from previous macronist politics and winning parliamentary and public trust.

In summary, Sébastien Lecornu's October 14 speech marks a significant political moment: the suspension of pension reform, renewed commitment to parliamentary debate, a focus on fiscal prudence, and a call for collaborative governance across France's political spectrum.