Belgian PM calls prospect of second emergency budget a ‘terrible failure’

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has called it “a terrible failure” that his government may have to rely on emergency spending rules for a second year running, as the coalition struggles to agree a 2027 budget.

The five coalition parties have not reached a deal, triggering a crisis this week. De Wever tendered his resignation on Monday; King Philippe is considering it until Friday. A decision is expected that day on whether De Wever will continue negotiations or the government will fall.

Without an approved budget, the government will have to use Belgium’s “provisional twelfths” from 1 January. Under the system, it can spend up to one-twelfth each month of the previous year’s approved budget, allowing public services to continue while a new budget remains unsettled.

De Wever made his remarks during question time in parliament on Thursday.