No one had been warned. Neither his ministers, nor the unions, nor the Élysée. Questioned, this Thursday, February 27, by Le Figaro on pensions, François Bayrou believes that “when questions are blocked, the referendum is a way out. At the same time, professional organizations close their first day of social conference, precisely devoted to this thorny subject. “If there is a referendum, you might as well stop discussions immediately,” criticizes a minister.
While the Head of Government asked his team to remain as prudent and discreet as possible during the “conclave”, here he comes to disturb the union camera. “He asks us not to interfere, but his referendum is a major interference,” sighs an adviser from the executive, on the front line on the file.