Czech MPs to continue debate on 2027 state budget

The Chamber of Deputies will continue its debate on the 2027 state budget on Thursday. The budget is being discussed in its first reading, during which MPs are expected to approve its basic parameters. Once approved, the overall revenue, expenditure and deficit figures can no longer be changed, although MPs will be able to propose reallocations within the budget during the second reading.

The opposition is protesting against the proposed deficit of CZK 386 billion, the second-highest in the country’s history. However the governing coalition has enough votes to push the draft budget through. It will then go to the president for approval.

President Petr Pavel said earlier that he was not considering vetoing the budget. He described the proposal as poor and potentially risky in the long term, but said it was an instrument of government policy and that it was up to the cabinet to defend it.