Arrr, them French scallywags be passin' a bill to make kickin' out unwelcome landlubbers easier. Blimey!
2023-12-20
Arrrr, mateys! The French parliament be sayin' aye to a mighty controversial immigration bill, seekin' to toss those unwanted foreigners off our shores. With a hearty 349-186 vote, off they go!
The French parliament has approved a controversial immigration bill aimed at strengthening the country's ability to deport undesirable foreigners. The measure, which received support from the far-right, was passed with a 349-186 vote in the National Assembly. Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne hailed the bill as containing "useful, efficient provisions" that were expected by the citizens. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, a strong advocate for the bill, argued for greater firmness against foreign offenders. The bill still needs to be officially enacted into law.The compromise reached between members of President Emmanuel Macron's centrist majority and the conservative party The Republicans allowed the bill to progress through the legislative process. Critics saw this as a sign of Macron's government shifting to the right. The compromise text includes provisions to reduce the number of migrants coming to France, such as limiting foreigners' access to social benefits. Macron's government does not hold a majority in parliament. Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau, in opposition to the bill, resigned from his position.
Leftist politicians accused the centrists of pushing the bill with the support of the far-right. Marine Le Pen, the leader of the far-right National Rally group, described the legislation as an ideological victory for her party. However, Prime Minister Borne emphasized that there were enough votes from Macron's centrist allies and the conservatives for the bill to pass without the support of the National Rally.
Advocacy organizations have criticized the bill, viewing it as a threat to the rights of migrants. This debate on immigration in France coincides with discussions among European Union leaders on new rules to control migration. Critics argue that the reforms will weaken the rights of asylum-seekers and encourage questionable agreements with countries from which people flee to reach Europe.