Belgian budget talks: MR leader and economist back deep civil service cuts

MR president Georges-Louis Bouchez and economist Bruno Colmant agree on the need for deep public spending and tax reform ahead of Belgium's budget conclave, with Bouchez proposing a reduction of 150,000-200,000 civil servants and the closure of 60 train stations. The proposal is preliminary and part of ongoing coalition negotiations; its feasibility and political support remain uncertain. This signals potential fiscal tightening in Belgium, which could weigh on growth and public sector employment.