The Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Manuela Schwesig (SPD), has welcomed the implementation of the new fuel discount, while also demanding additional measures to ensure permanently lower petrol and diesel prices. Speaking to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, Schwesig described the discount as a necessary and important relief measure.
She emphasized that for many citizens, the automobile is not a luxury, but a necessity for essential transportation, whether commuting to work, visiting a doctor, or running errands. The broader objective, she reiterated, is for both petrol and diesel to once again cost under two euros per liter.
While the fuel discount represents a significant first step, Schwesig argued that more action is needed, calling for the introduction of a price cap and a windfall tax. She stated that it is unacceptable for businesses and citizens to pay high prices at the pump while oil conglomerates simultaneously record massive profits.
The new fuel discount will become effective beginning October 1st. While the federal government plans to introduce a price cap no later than January 1st, the implementation of the windfall tax, which the SPD has demanded, has yet to be determined.
