Thorsten Frei, the future Chief of the Chancellor’s Office (CDU), expects tax relief for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to begin in 2027. “We must quickly return to the path of economic growth to create the necessary room for maneuver” said the CDU politician to the newspapers of the Funke Media Group (Wednesday editions). “Then we will implement tax cuts for small and medium-sized incomes towards the middle of the legislative period.” This is the firm will of the Union and SPD. “I am sure that these reliefs will come on schedule” Frei assured.
Frei also announced major reforms in healthcare, care and pensions. These reforms would inevitably have burdens for all generations: the burden of demographic change should not be placed solely on one generation. “Real intergenerational justice” is needed to secure the social systems, Frei emphasized. “All” must contribute.
In response to a question about whether the current pension generation would also be affected by cuts, Frei said: “The current pension generation must also contribute appropriately, taking into account their life achievements.” However, this generation can least expect changes. Therefore, they must be dealt with as responsibly as possible. On the other hand, young people still have the chance to adapt their lives to the challenges. Frei advised the younger generation to “sufficiently secure themselves privately.