Last week, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu ended the lifetime benefits granted to former prime ministers.
The move comes amid widespread public discontent over political privileges, especially as French citizens face calls for belt-tightening and economic sacrifice. Petitions and public campaigns have increasingly demanded an end to what many see as outdated and unfair entitlements.
While the financial cost of these benefits is relatively modest - around €4m last year -their symbolic weight is immense. In a country whose national dictum is Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité, such privileges are viewed by many as a glaring contradiction.
Little surprise then when the government is looking to substantially reduce the public deficit, in announcing the reform the Prime Minister stated that: "We cannot ask the French people to make efforts if those at the head of the state do not do the same."
Unlike former presidents, former prime ministers receive no annual cash allowance, although they receive three months’ severance pay (around €48,000). Their support comprises an official car with driver, a private secretary (but only up to the age of 67 years) and police protection. From 2026, these privileges will only be available for a maximum of 10 years.
There are currently 17 former prime ministers receiving these benefits.
There was no suggestion in the announcement by the Prime Minister that the lifelong benefits to former presidents should also be reviewed.
They are granted an official car, with driver, as well as a private office. The office is staffed by up to 7 personnel for the first 5 years, when it is then reduced to 3 staff.
They also receive an annual cash allowance of €65,000 a year.
The state covers the rent and operating costs of furnished and equipped offices and pays for reception and travel expenses related to their former presidential duties.
Lifelong police protection is provided by the national police, including close protection officers.
The cost to the state in 2024 of two former presidents - Nicolas Sarkozy and François Hollande - was €1.39m.
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