French MPs have now started a debate ahead of the vote of no confidence in PM Michel Barnier.
Although Barnier has insisted he can still win the vote, the left-wing alliance New Popular Front and Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally MPs have already said they will cast their ballots against him.
If the motion passes, as is expected, the government will collapse but Barnier will likely be asked to stay on as a caretaker prime minister.
This latest drama was triggered when Barnier bypassed normal parliamentary procedures to force through his 2025 budget.
In reality, the 73-year-old has been in a precarious position since the day he became prime minister in September, with his appointment following elections in which no party had enough seats to govern on its own.
Stay with us for updates and analysis in the run-up to the crucial vote. BBC