Germany’s Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has formally requested that his cabinet colleagues submit detailed proposals for consolidating the federal budget, a move now met with calls for concrete action from the opposition.
Mathias Middelberg, deputy parliamentary group leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stated that the Minister’s letter represents a crucial initial step toward budgetary consolidation. He emphasized the need for all ministers to deliver on potential savings within their respective portfolios, asserting that opportunities for consolidation exist across all areas of government.
Middelberg also highlighted a commitment enshrined in the governing coalition agreement to review the necessity of all state functions, with a comprehensive assessment of tasks and expenditures slated for completion this year. He acknowledged significant budgetary gaps projected from 2027, framing this as both a challenge and an opportunity to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the German state.
The call for action follows a letter from Minister Klingbeil requesting a “joint effort” from his cabinet colleagues to address a projected 30 billion euro financing gap in the federal budget for 2027.