Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU) has clearly criticized the SPD’s proposals in the dispute over possible relief in view of high fuel consumption. “In recent weeks, the coalition partner has attracted attention by putting forward proposals that are expensive, ineffective and constitutionally questionable,” Reiche said at a press conference.
An excess profits tax for petroleum companies – like from Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) suggested, she gave a “clear rejection”. This is a measure “that was rejected and rejected by the courts and is controversial in Europe.”
Refineries that have to pay such a tax are “an important location factor” in Germany, said the minister. Weakening refineries is “the wrong signal at this time. Rather, we must do everything we can to strengthen Germany as a refinery location.”
Increase in the commuter allowance
Instead, she advocated a temporary increase in the commuter allowance and a mobility bonus. She also suggested temporarily reducing the diesel tax in order to help the goods and logistics industry. This should be counter-financed with the federal government’s higher VAT revenue due to the increased fuel prices.
This Friday, Klingbeil has representatives from business and trade unions invited to a crisis summit in Berlin. According to Reich, the leaders of the Union and SPD want to talk about possible relief in the coalition committee on Sunday. So far there is no compromise in sight, the ideas differ widely. In addition to an excess profits tax, Klingbeil also spoke out in favor of a flexible fuel price cap.
Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) does not assume rapid relief. The federal government is “in close dialogue,” but we should Don’t count on short-term decisionssaid the CDU leader. The Chancellor rejects an excess profits tax. However, he was open to one higher commuter allowance and a lower electricity tax.