Scholz warns of standstill until German federal elections
Published: Wednesday, Dec 4th 2024, 15:40
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has warned the Bundestag against a political standstill until the new parliamentary elections on February 23.
In a government survey, the SPD politician once again called on the opposition to approve several bills proposed by his red-green minority government. "The election campaign period is not the time to stand still. Something can still be done," he said.
Resolutions called for on Germany ticket and income tax
The government no longer has a majority since the break-up of the traffic light coalition and is reliant on support from the Christian Democrats or its former partner, the FDP. Specifically, Scholz mentioned planned relief for the so-called cold progression in income tax, an increase in child benefit and the continued financing of the low-cost Germany ticket for local transport. In addition, an extension of the rent brake for tight housing markets is also on the agenda. It would be bad if it were to expire at the end of next year.
In order to secure jobs in industry, the Chancellor made it clear that energy prices also needed to be secure. "We have now made the proposal to use the funds still available to prevent an increase in grid fees for the large overland lines, which are so important and require so much investment, next year." He therefore asked for the proposal for relief to be adopted in this parliament this year.
First survey since the end of the "traffic light" coalition
Scholz answered questions from MPs for the first time since the end of the "traffic light" coalition (SPD, FDP, Greens) on November 6. In the coming week, he intends to submit a motion to the Bundestag for a vote of confidence, which will then be put to the vote on December 16. In this way, the Chancellor hopes to bring about a new election on February 23.
Trip to Ukraine defended
During the interview, Scholz also defended his recent trip to Ukraine. He said that it was particularly important for him to talk to Ukraine about their plans now, before this winter with its great dangers. "This must also be done very thoroughly and intensively." The CDU/CSU had accused him of the trip being an election campaign maneuver.
Scholz once again defended his decision not to supply Ukraine with long-range Taurus cruise missiles. It is now also important to "keep a cool head".
Scholz also defended his telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, he emphasized that no decisions should be made over the heads of the Ukrainians.
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