Andreas Audretsch, the deputy chairman of the Green parliamentary group, accused Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) of losing control and criticized the ruling parties’ sluggish response to high energy prices. Audretsch told the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” (Saturday edition) that, “The chancellor is losing control, and the dispute between Katherina Reiche and Lars Klingbeil is escalating”. This comment followed sharp criticism from Economics Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) directed at Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) on Friday. Audretsch urged that instead of chaos, there needed to be a clear crisis plan from both the chancellor and the deputy chancellor. He stated, “Nothing exists. This is miserable crisis management” pointing out that the CDU and SPD could not even agree on the most obvious measures. The Green politician further demanded that the “excess profits” of oil companies be seized, that the electricity tax be reduced for everyone, and that in addition to a speed limit on highways, a €9 ticket for buses and trains be introduced. Audretsch concluded by asserting, “Action must be taken now”.
Politics
