French Assembly Weighs End to Alcohol Sales at Its Iconic Parliamentary Bar

The French National Assembly is considering a proposal that could end the sale of alcohol at its parliamentary bar, known as the buvette. The initiative was presented on October 31 by Emmanuel Duplessy, a deputy from the Génération.s party. Duplessy’s proposal aims to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages within the Palais Bourbon, where the Assembly meets. The measure is part of a broader effort to optimize public spending and review internal practices at the Assembly.

According to data cited by Duplessy, sales of alcoholic drinks at the buvette generated less than 100,000 euros last year. The report notes that these sales are not limited to deputies alone. The buvette is also open to ministers, staff members, ministerial advisers, and former deputies. This wider access makes it difficult to determine exactly how much alcohol is consumed by current lawmakers.

Duplessy’s proposal goes further than just banning alcohol sales at the bar. He also wants to end reimbursement for alcoholic beverages purchased during meals by deputies. Currently, deputies can claim such expenses through their monthly advance for mandate expenses (AFM), a system introduced in 2018. The AFM allows parliamentarians to be reimbursed for costs related to their official duties that are not otherwise covered or reimbursed by the Assembly. These expenses can include travel, accommodation, and meals, with most deputies receiving a monthly allowance of 6,553 euros.

In his report, Duplessy raises concerns about both public health and public perception. He questions whether it is appropriate for deputies to use public funds to pay for wine or other alcoholic drinks consumed at work between sessions. He also points out that many French citizens are uneasy with the idea of alcohol being sold in a workplace setting like the National Assembly.

However, the proposed changes would not apply to all situations involving alcohol. The report specifies that exceptions would remain for costs related to organizing receptions, ceremonies, or working dinners where guests might consume alcohol. These events are considered part of official parliamentary functions and would still be eligible for reimbursement under current rules.

The debate over alcohol at the National Assembly comes amid broader discussions in France about transparency and responsible use of public funds. While some see the tradition of wine and beer at the buvette as part of French political culture, others argue that it is time for change in line with modern workplace standards and expectations from the public.

The proposal has sparked discussion among deputies and observers about whether such measures are necessary or symbolic. Some lawmakers have expressed support for stricter rules on alcohol consumption and reimbursement, while others defend existing practices as reasonable and rooted in tradition.

No final decision has been made yet on Duplessy’s proposal. The issue will likely be debated further as part of ongoing reviews of parliamentary budgets and internal regulations. For now, wine and beer remain available at the buvette, but their future in the halls of French power is uncertain as lawmakers weigh tradition against calls for reform.