Socialist Group's Head Honcho Lauds Coalition Committee After Meeting
In the aftermath of the coalition negotiations, Matthias Miersch, the SPD Faction Leader, has outlined the key topics and strategies for the black-red government. The economy, unemployment, and reform of the social state have taken centre stage, with a particular focus on the 30 billion euro budget gap expected in 2027.
Miersch agreed with Friedrich Merz that the social state needs reform to ensure its future-proofness. He emphasised the need to combat abuse in the citizen's income system and acknowledged that addressing the budget deficit is not just about expenditure, but also about discussing the income side.
The SPD Faction Leader believes that it's not just the finance minister's task, but the entire government's to address the 30 billion deficit in the 2027 budget. Potential tax increases, spending cuts, and efficiency improvements are all on the table, with the government seeking a joint effort from ministries to address the shortfall amidst a difficult fiscal situation despite high tax revenues.
Miersch is optimistic about the coalition's approach after the committee of unity. He feels that they can now start with the concrete legislative proposals, with many decisions on these expected to be made in the cabinet and the German Bundestag in the fall.
Barbara Bas is tackling the issue of abuse in the citizen's income system with relevant committees, and Miersch is confident that constructive results will be achieved with the CDU/CSU on this issue.
Miersch denied that only a vague timetable and little concrete were decided to avoid new conflict. He stated that further consultations of the four black-red party leaders are planned for the reform of the citizen's money.
Despite admitting "mistakes" during the first 100 days, the mood after the negotiations was still very good, according to Miersch. The coalition wants to find a "new autumn strength" after the "summer depression." Miersch is optimistic about the coalition's approach, believing that they have the financial means to support those genuinely in need.
However, Miersch does not believe in postponing problem-solving through established commissions. He underlined that many decisions on concrete legislative proposals will be made in the near future.
In conclusion, the black-red coalition is set to tackle the budget deficit and reform the social state with a focus on the citizen's income system. With the government's commitment to a joint effort and the concrete legislative proposals on the horizon, the future looks promising for addressing these challenges.
