Presidential terms could be limited

The number of presidential terms could be limited to two, according to plans approved by the Council of Ministers.

The constitutional shake up also includes a move to restrict by law the number of ministers in any French government.

The reform project will be debated in Parliament on May 20, where it must be approved by three fifths of members if it is to be approved.

Government spokesman Luc Chatel said: “This will be the biggest reform to the French Constitution since 1958.

“The President of the Republic has said that these changes, called for during his presidential campaign, will create true democracy in France.”

Among other measures, the text sets out that the President will be able to address Parliament directly, something he cannot do at the moment.

Parliament will have a right of resolution on all subjects of European and international policy.

It will also be immediately informed of external military operations and will have to authorize their continuation at the end of six months.