The debate surrounding multi-billion euro contracts awarded during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified, with the conservative Union faction advocating for an inquiry commission rather than a parliamentary investigative committee.
Steffen Bilger, Parliamentary Secretary of the Union faction, told the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” that a committee solely composed of politicians is traditionally a tool of the opposition. Conversely, an inquiry commission has the potential to impartially and objectively examine the pandemic by incorporating external experts. The focus, according to the Union, should be on assuming responsibility and better preparing the nation for future crises, rather than engaging in politically motivated blame.
This position follows previous demands from the Green Party and the Left Party for an investigative committee. These calls emerged after reports by “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, NDR and WDR revealed an unredacted version of the so-called “Sudhof Report”. This report aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding the procurement of protective masks during the pandemic and the role of former Health Minister Jens Spahn (CDU) in securing the substantial contracts.
Heidi Reichinnek, parliamentary leader of the Left Party, previously stated to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung” that if the Union is unwilling to facilitate clarity, even with seemingly nothing to hide, the Social Democratic Party (SPD) must step in and enable an investigative committee. The minimum requirement, she added, is to ensure thorough investigation into any personal influence exerted by Spahn and to acknowledge responsibility accordingly. Janosch Dahmen, Green Party spokesperson for health policy, echoed this sentiment in the same publication.