Chancellor Olaf Scholz outlined key legislative priorities before the February elections, emphasizing support for Ukraine while managing costs. He defended recent government decisions, including the dismissal of Finance Minister Lindner, and called for urgent passage of essential laws, such as tax relief measures. Scholz also proposed increasing child benefits and enhancing the Federal Constitutional Court’s independence. He reiterated Germany’s commitment to Ukraine without escalating the conflict and stressed the importance of maintaining domestic investments alongside international obligations.
Chancellor Scholz’s Government Statement: Legislative Priorities Ahead of Elections
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has recently presented his government statement, emphasizing the urgency of enacting critical legislative measures before the upcoming elections scheduled for February 23. He reiterated the necessity of continued support for Ukraine, albeit with caution regarding the costs involved.
Defending Recent Decisions and Legislative Agenda
In the Bundestag, Scholz addressed the recent dissolution of the traffic light coalition and defended his decision to dismiss Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner. “This decision was right and unavoidable,” asserted the Chancellor, representing the SPD.
Looking forward, Scholz welcomed the confirmation of the election date, expressing gratitude for the clarity it brings. He plans to seek a confidence vote on December 11, with the Bundestag expected to deliberate on it by December 16.
Despite the coalition’s collapse, the government remains operational, and Scholz stressed the need for the parliament to act decisively during this interim period. He indicated that there are several essential laws that must be passed without delay.
One of the key initiatives he highlighted is the plan for “more net from gross,” aiming to alleviate the burden of cold progression, which can lead to higher taxes for those whose incomes rise with inflation. Scholz believes that implementing this adjustment could provide significant relief for taxpayers beginning in January.
Additionally, he emphasized the importance of advancing the growth initiative, which includes 49 proposals, many of which remain unaddressed. Scholz called for the swift passage of as many of these initiatives as possible to bolster the country’s economic prospects, noting that many of them are broadly agreeable.
Scholz also advocated for an increase in child benefits, addressing the needs of families, and highlighted the necessity of enhancing the protection of the Federal Constitutional Court from political influences.
Though the current government lacks a majority in the Bundestag, discussions with the opposition factions have shown a willingness to collaborate on certain key issues.
Support for Ukraine: A Balanced Approach
On the matter of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Scholz reiterated Germany’s commitment to providing support but underscored the importance of avoiding escalation. He stated his opposition to the use of German-supplied weapons in Russian territory and confirmed his refusal to provide Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, emphasizing that Germany should not become embroiled in the conflict.
Furthermore, Scholz cautioned against allowing support for Ukraine to detract from domestic priorities such as social services, infrastructure, and pensions. He firmly believes that assistance for Ukraine should not come at the expense of vital investments in Germany’s infrastructure, which must remain a priority.
In addressing transatlantic relations, Scholz highlighted the significance of maintaining strong cooperation with the United States, regardless of political changes. He expressed optimism about the future of these relationships, having had positive discussions with former President Trump.
This comprehensive approach reflects Scholz’s commitment to balancing international obligations with domestic needs, ensuring that both Germany and Ukraine can thrive despite the challenges ahead.