Political showdown looms in France as new PM bids to force budget through

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou could face a confidence vote this week. Picture: Thibault Camus/AP

Political uncertainty is again looming in France after Prime Minister Francois Bayrou warned he will use special executive powers this week to get his budget approved without a vote in parliament.

The move is expected to trigger a motion of no confidence which, depending on whether political forces across the board join forces, could lead to Mr Bayrou’s downfall.