In the ongoing dispute regarding the proposed fuel price cap, Federal Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) criticized the legislative draft presented by Federal Economics Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) and called for immediate amendments. Speaking to the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung”, Hubig noted that an investigation suggests if the cap is structured as currently proposed, it will ultimately amount to “dead law,” and that it must not end up being a “paper tiger.”
Hubig expressed deep skepticism about whether the current draft, which is part of the coalition agreement, is adequate. She emphasized that consumers require an “effective law that makes a noticeable difference at the pump,” adding, “We still have to fine-tune [the legislation] a little.”
Furthermore, she criticized the high hurdles required for the capping mechanism to be activated. Hubig questioned the logic behind waiting until price increases have exceeded the EU average for three consecutive weeks before the cap would take effect.
The SPD has been advocating for a faster and more effective implementation of the fuel price cap for several days. This instrument is set to replace the current tank discount, which is scheduled to expire at the end of December and is due to take effect on January 1.
