Nordrhein‑Westphalia’s state premier, Hendrik Wüst of the CDU, praised the reform speech delivered by SPD chairman Lars Klingbeil at the Bertelsmann Foundation. Addressing the German magazine “Stern”, Wüst said Klingbeil’s proposals form a solid basis for discussions about the fundamental changes Germany needs. He cautioned his own party not to hastily dismantle the SPD chair’s ideas: “We shouldn’t immediately tear apart individual aspects”.
Wüst expressed particular satisfaction with Klingbeil’s remarks on reducing bureaucracy and modernising the state. “All of this is striking” the influential CDU figure noted, adding that he expects the SPD‑run ministries to translate Klingbeil’s words into action over the coming months. Klingbeil had earlier called for a “radical” cut in bureaucratic red tape.
Additionally, Klingbeil outlined a mandatory, capital‑funded occupational pension that would relieve the state pension system. At this point, Wüst warned that the costs to employees and employers from such a pension must be offset by easing pressures elsewhere. “Wages should not come under additional strain” he said.
During his Wednesday afternoon address at the Bertelsmann Foundation, Klingbeil urged profound changes to the labour market, including making longer working careers more attractive. He also announced an income‑tax reform aimed at relieving 95 % of employees, to be balanced by requiring higher‑income and wealthier individuals to contribute more.
The federal government plans to introduce its first set of reforms in the coming weeks. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, speaking on Tuesday in a Union caucus meeting, told “Stern” that all fundamental decisions must be made between Easter and the summer break.