The SPD parliamentary group’s managing director, Dirk Wiese, has defended the demand for a special conference of state premiers with the federal government regarding energy supplies. Speaking to RTL and ntv, he stated that the situation must be taken very seriously. He pointed out that there is no sign of relief in the Strait of Hormuz, and the immediate consequences of the erratic behavior of the US president are evident. For these reasons, he believes it is correct that the SPD state premiers have called for a special conference, as the issue affects all levels of government.
Wiese also expressed deep concern over potential shortages not only in kerosene but also in supplies of aluminum and helium. He noted that the situation at gas stations is far from relaxed, emphasizing the necessity for proactive crisis management. He added that this is also a responsibility of the Chancellery. He referenced the fact that former SPD Chancellor Olaf Scholz established an energy security cabinet after the start of the war in Ukraine to identify and prevent shortages, arguing that “we must take on this task together at all levels now”. According to Wiese, there is still ample room for improvement in preventative measures.
Regarding the air transport industry’s demand for a suspension of the air traffic tax, Wiese rejected this proposal. He stated that it is not possible to promise relief to everyone, and that the focus must instead remain on people who rely on cars for their daily commutes. The SPD politician emphasized the need for trade-offs, noting that the state cannot finance everything. He concluded by stating, “I say this: the focus must be on people who need a car to get to work or to bring their children to school. Those people must be relieved of burdens”. He also mentioned that the federal government is taking steps this week by lowering gas prices at stations by 17 cents.