Question

Consider the following statements:

A. Cohabitation is a term used in France when the President and Prime Minister come from opposing political camps.

B. In the history of the Fifth Republic, there has never been a cohabitation in France.

Which of the above statement/statements is/are incorrect?

1. A only
2. B only
3. Both A and B
4. Neither A nor B

Answer 1

Correct Answer: B only

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Explanation:

1. Statement A:

   • Cohabitation is a term used in France when the President and Prime Minister come from opposing political camps.
   • Correct:
     • The term cohabitation refers to a situation in the French Fifth Republic where the President and the Prime Minister belong to opposing political parties. This occurs because of the semi-presidential system, where the President and Parliament are elected separately.

2. Statement B:

   • In the history of the Fifth Republic, there has never been a cohabitation in France.
   • Incorrect:
     • Cohabitation has occurred several times in the history of the Fifth Republic, including notable examples:
       • 1986-1988: President François Mitterrand (Socialist) and Prime Minister Jacques Chirac (Right-wing).
       • 1993-1995: President François Mitterrand (Socialist) and Prime Minister Édouard Balladur (Right-wing).
       • 1997-2002: President Jacques Chirac (Right-wing) and Prime Minister Lionel Jospin (Socialist).

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Conclusion:

• Statement A is correct.
• Statement B is incorrect.
  Thus, the correct answer is B only.