Just before the critical session of the Coalition Committee before the summer recess, Niedersachsen Minister-President Olaf Lies of the SPD warned both the Union and the SPD in the federal government against making hurried decisions, even acknowledging that expectations and time pressure are high.
Lies stated to “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” that “we need speed, but not haste. Speed coupled with haste results in irresponsibility.” He emphasized that they should not make the mistake of placing all hopes on the next coalition summit. His expectation for the coalition talks is a clear, binding, and ambitious work plan. He added that Germany requires fundamental reforms in pensions, health, care, and taxes.
The SPD politician stressed that where agreement exists, action must be taken. However, where issues remain open, the federal government, states, municipalities, unions, and employers must collectively find viable solutions. Lies insisted that reforms will only gain public acceptance if they are fair. He argued that anyone discussing cuts must also discuss fair burdens, emphasizing that “stronger shoulders must carry more than weaker ones.” This, he concluded, is not merely rhetoric, but a fundamental prerequisite for societal cohesion and securing a liberal democratic order.
