Scholz backs Lindner in the savings argument. - Chancellor delivers disheartening news to his cabinet members.
The finance minister has set boundaries - a decision we both agreed upon. Now the tough work of reconciling desires and realities commences, said Scholz to Stern magazine.
To address the ongoing disputes, he called out to his ministers, "I'm relying on everyone understanding their responsibility and our ability to work together on this matter."
The cabinet is set to approve the proposed budget for 2025 in July, but there's a significant disagreement on financial planning.
Lindner has voiced displeasure over "individual departments that presented excessive wish lists - as if it were Christmas, Easter, and a birthday celebration all at once." Lindner was particularly critical of ministries that spend their resources overseas.
Specifically, the reference was to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry for Development Aid, led by Annalena Baerbock (43, Greens) and Svenja Schulze (55, SPD).
Now, Scholz is backing Lindner and the FDP Finance Minister's cost-cutting targets, contradicting the requests of his other ministers seeking additional funds.
Although the Chancellor avoided providing specific details, he acknowledged the financial impact of the Ukraine war, refugee expenses, and arms deliveries, "Anyone who claims these costs are barely noticeable in the budget is mistaken." He emphasized the need to maintain the welfare state and invest in the economy, "We must neither compromise social cohesion nor undergo a significant economic stagnation."
When asked about potential exceptions to the debt brake, an idea Lindner and the FDP are resisting, Scholz simply said, "For now, let's focus on the effort."
Read also:
- What's making the Bayern leader appear so anxious?
- Most supporters desire Neuhaus to remain with the team.
- The referee for the upcoming cup final has been declared.
- Wohlgemuth announces two new names.
Source: symclub.org
