Sachsen‑Anhalt’s Prime Minister Sven Schulze (CDU) has called for consultations on relief measures for households and businesses as gasoline and energy prices rise in connection with the war in the Middle East. In an interview with “Politico”, Schulze explained that a fresh discount on fuel is unlikely to be agreed on so quickly. “What matters is that we develop response mechanisms” he said. “We must be prepared for the fact that if this situation endures, further decisions in Europe will be necessary”.
This topic is also to be discussed at the upcoming Ministerial Conference in Berlin. Schulze said he expects that “the Ministers‑in‑the‑making chamber” will definitely address the impact of the difficult situation in the Middle East. He added that the discussion does not have to hinge on whether the financial support available is sufficient. There are also broader policy levers that could be adjusted. For example, he cited the emissions trading scheme (ETS) as a framework that burdens both the economy and consumers. “If certain measures are postponed or scaled back at the European level, that would also help alleviate the strain” he said.