Facing union pressure, the French government has decided not to convene the joint parliamentary committee on a bill allowing work on May 1st in proximity shops. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announces proposals for these sectors and meetings at Matignon this week. Labor Minister Jean-Pierre Farandou met with unions and calls for in-depth social dialogue.
The government backed down on April 13, 2026, on a bill to expand work on May 1st, France's only mandatory holiday off for most sectors. Leaders of the eight main unions sent a joint letter to the Prime Minister on Sunday opposing the measure, especially for proximity shop employees like bakers and florists.
Sébastien Lecornu stated on X that the government seeks «deep social dialogue with social partners on the scope of activities and shops concerned». He promised «short and medium-term proposals» and meetings «at Matignon this week» with affected professions. «Reforms are possible: with respect, and with a method», he added.
After a meeting with unions (CFDT, CGT, FO, CFE-CGC, CFTC), Jean-Pierre Farandou confirmed the Prime Minister «has decided not to request the joint parliamentary committee». The minister highlighted the topic's «particular sensitivity», noting May 1st is «the day of workers, the only paid holiday off». He left room for «some derogations» from 2027.
Gabriel Attal, who carried the bill for Renaissance, «deplores» the decision on a project «for freedom, for work, for purchasing power». Bruno Retailleau (LR) denounces «repeated capitulations» to union and left-wing pressures. Mathilde Panot (LFI) hails a «victory» due to union mobilization.
