|
|
Pierre Moscovici announced at a press conference in Paris on 10 November that the Commission would delay the publication of its opinions on the member states' 2015 budgets, expected on 12 November.
The 28 member states presented their budget proposals for next year to the European Commission in mid-October.
"The reason for this delay is obvious. The new Commission took up office a week ago, and we need some time for discussion," the Economic Affairs Commissioner said.
The French Commissioner's position may become complicated, as France has not respected European rules regarding public deficit and debt. The French deficit will grow to 4.6% of GDP in 2015, and the public debt to 98%, while the limits set by the EU are 3% and 60% respectively.
For France, such sanctions would mean an excessive deficit fine of at least 4 billion euros.
"Sanctions are always a failure. My aim will be to avoid sanctions," the French Commissioner said.