Gitta Connemann, the head of the Mittelstandsunion (MIT), has warned the coalition leaders about intervening in the market due to high energy prices. Instead, she advocates for relief measures by increasing the commuter allowance parcel. Through this stance, the CDU politician supports the position of Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Katherina Reiche.
Speaking to the news magazine “Focus” Connemann stated, “It is past the point of no return for our small and medium-sized enterprises in Germany. The German economy has stagnated for years. In this phase of structural weakness, the fuel price crisis acts like a accelerant. To prevent a widespread disaster, action must be taken now”.
The CDU economic politician added that hasty actions or market interventions are likely to fail or backfire. She urged that commuters and logistics workers need support, listing specific demands: “Increase the commuter allowance and the mobility bonus for low-income earners. We need direct payments. Lower the energy tax on truck or commercial diesel”.
It should also be noted that Connemann serves as a parliamentary state secretary in the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs. Her minister, Katherina Reiche, is currently facing significant criticism. On Friday, Reiche criticized the SPD for demanding a windfall tax and a flexible fuel price cap, even though Chancellor Friedrich Merz had called on his ministers to reach an agreement. Subsequently, the CDU leader publicly corrected his party colleague in an unusual maneuver.