Federal Economics Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) expressed her approval regarding the decisions made over the weekend by the leadership of the black-red coalition at the Villa Borsig in Berlin. Reiche told newspapers from the Funke Media Group (Tuesday editions) that, “The decisions from the weekend send an important signal: By temporarily reducing the energy tax, we are easing the burden on the economy and the people who rely on their cars”.
She added that the measures also aim to strengthen the antitrust authority to ensure fair competition at gas stations and promote domestic energy sources. The measures, according to Reiche, “provide a good foundation”. They are also beneficial for the numerous small and medium-sized enterprises that travel long distances daily using cars and vans. “Now, the focus must be on implementing structural reforms quickly and bravely, including changes in energy policy. Together, we must work towards a competitive Germany” Reiche stated.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Economics further noted that the minister has remained “in constant exchange regarding the decisions”. This followed an instance on Friday when Reiche had publicly criticized proposals for potential relief measures made by Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD), which in turn prompted criticism directed at Reiche from within the SPD.