Armand Zorn, Deputy Leader of the SPD parliamentary group, has urged politicians from the CDU and CSU to refrain from publicly questioning the decisions made by the coalition committee.
In an interview with the “Tagesspiegel” Zorn stated, “I believe that no one benefits from outdoing each other with demands in the press”. He affirmed the SPD’s commitment to the coalition agreement and its desire to continue working constructively towards solutions, expressing his expectation for the Union to do the same.
Several representatives of the CDU and CSU have publicly criticized the electricity tax relief decided upon by the federal government. These include CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann and North Rhine-Westphalia Premier Hendrik Wüst (CDU), who have both called for relief for consumers.
Zorn pushed back against the perception that the Union prioritizes consumers more than the SPD. “Just because someone shouts the loudest doesn’t mean they are committed to it the most” Zorn told the “Tagesspiegel”. “Press releases are quick to write. What matters is what solutions ultimately emerge.
He expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of Wednesday evening’s meeting, suggesting that “there seemed to be a need for discussion”. Zorn added that the results represent a “good basis” and demonstrate the coalition’s ability and willingness to work together.
Furthermore, the SPD parliamentary deputy assured that the electricity tax relief for consumers and small businesses would be implemented within the current legislative period. While he did not specify a date, Zorn confirmed that this was agreed upon. He noted that scenarios for an immediate full relief were discussed within the coalition committee, although a final agreement was not reached. He emphasized the need for the relief to be implemented as quickly as possible.