Felix Banaszak, the Green Party chairman, urged several steps to curb fuel use amid rising gasoline and diesel prices. “We need fundamental action now to protect people and businesses – and without ideological blinders” he told “Spiegel” on Thursday. “A short‑term speed limit would immediately cut fuel consumption, soften prices, and help decisively and simply everyone who relies on a car for work”.
He also floated bringing back the 9‑Euro ticket for public transport. “At least for the duration of the war, it would make it easier for millions of people to switch temporarily to public transport” Banaszak added, noting that the idea seems to be ignored even for discussion.
Banaszak proposed a temporary excess‑profit levy on major oil companies. The revenue could then be passed directly to consumers through lower electricity bills.
He criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the black‑red coalition for lacking the courage to address the energy‑price crisis. “They fear the citizens, while citizens have repeatedly shown they are willing to make sacrifices when they see purpose and encounter a government that actually does what is practical and necessary” the Green leader remarked. “This chancellor cannot handle a crisis”.
