GAULLISTS UNIMPAIRED

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31319, 15 March 1967, Page 13

GAULLISTS UNIMPAIRED

(N.Z.P. A. -Reuter—Copyright) PARIS, Mar. 14. The sharp setback suffered by the Gaullists in the General Elections is unlikely to have much effect on President de Gaulle’s Government or policies. The loss of 40 seats in Parliament was a painful blow to Gaullist prestige. But it will not impair the Government's ability to carry on governing as before. None of the parties anticipate any serious difficulties for the Government after the National Assembly meets on April 4. In spite of the majority of only three seats over all other parties—and this may be two when the final result is in—the Gaullists seem certain of finding additional Parliamentary support. Several of the 15 independent Conservative deputies elected on Sunday owe their seats to a Gaullist candidate’s withdrawal after the first ballot on March 5.

The Information Minister, Mr Yvon Bourges, has already predicted that some of these will pledge their support to the Government in the new Assembly. There is also the possibility of defections from the Democratic Centre camp of Mr Jean Lecanuet, or even of a straight deal between the Centre Democrats and the Gaullists, though this is something the Government will try to avoid.

In any case, under General de Gaulle’s Fifth Republic Constitution, the Government, appointed by the President, Is not obliged to ask for a

parliamentary vote of confi dence.

The only way Parliament can oust the Government is by passing a motion of censure, on which only those in favour are allowed to vote. The motion must be supported by a simple majority of the Assembly. Even if they were capable of mustering such a majority the opposition parties would hardly be eager to overthrow the Government and precipitate new elections. Not Coalition The electoral alliance between the Communists and Mr Francois Mitterand’s Leftwing Federation could not provide the b-sis of a coalition Government, and the Communists have proposed negotiat ; ->ns for a joint policy programme.

The former Prime Minister, Mr Pierre Mendes-France, returned to the National Assembly for the first time since 1958, is expected to continue his campaign for closed unity of the Left.

In London the “Financial Times” said in an editorial that General de Gaulle’s reduced majority was induced, in one sense, because the voters objected to French policy in Europe. “Many Frenchmen feel instinctively that the role of European leadership in Gaullist terms, is one which exceeds their country’s strength,’’ the editorial said.

“They are concerned at what at times seems to be France’s almost completed isolation, not merely in Europe but also the world. “This does not, however, mean that all those who cast their ballot for an anti-Gaul-list candidate voted for Bidtain’s entry into the Community.”

The Times,” in an editorial, said France could have a Left-wing President in 1972. “French communism is as politically indigestible as ever,” “The Times” said. “But if the Left and exetreme Left manage to keep their alliance going they could secure the election of a Left-wing President in 1972.”