The end of Michel Barnier’s government looks inevitable, even imminent, and would add to the country’s political malaise. The only question seems to be: How long can he last?

Marine Le Pen, National Rally (RN) leader, has threatened to bring down the French government on Monday if Michel Barnier, France’s prime minister, does not drop effective cuts to pensions.

Far-right leader holds prime minister’s future in her hands as eurozone’s second biggest economy hurtles toward political and financial uncertainty.