French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is bracing for a no-confidence vote this week, a political reckoning poised to topple his fragile government and send shockwaves across the eurozone.

French Prime Minister Michel Barnier has used special powers to push through a social security budget bill without a vote by MPs, in a move expected to trigger vote of no confidence in government. Opposition parties are now set to trigger that vote - which could take place as early as Wednesday - and which Barnier's minority government is unlikely

STORY: The French government faces almost certain collapse later this week. Far-right and left-wing parties said they will vote for a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Michel Barnier.Their move came after Barnier said he would try to ram a social security bill through parliament without a vote.