“Reforms are possible: with respect and a systematic approach,” Lecornu said.
France currently only allows businesses deemed essential, including restaurants, to remain fully open. The owners of nonessential shops can operate on the holiday but only without employees.
Lecornu’s decision led to a public rift with the leader of his party, former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. Attal, one of the bill’s most vocal supporters, said on X that he deplored the government’s decision.
Left-wing parties and trade unions, meanwhile, welcomed Lecornu’s move.