During the ongoing discussion regarding sharply rising fuel prices, the Federation of Taxpayers has called for greater relief for commuters. According to Reiner Holznagel, the president of the federation, “the high petrol prices primarily affect commuters who have no alternative”. Holznagel indicated that the current mileage allowance of 38 cents is no longer sufficient. He is demanding a minimum of 45 cents per kilometer, with this adjustment taking effect retroactively to January 1st.
In contrast, CSU politician Michael Kießling, who speaks for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group on tourism, is advocating for strict action from the antitrust authority against the oil and gas corporations, even during Easter. Speaking to a newspaper, he stated, “Holidays are no reason to sit back. We have given the federal cartels office broad powers to intervene against price gouging on fuel prices, and it must use these rights offensively now to protect citizens and the economy”.
Kießling views the dramatic price increases seen in recent days as a direct challenge by the oil giants to the state. “The antitrust authority must act” he argued. “Because it creates the impression that the oil corporations are looking for a power struggle with the government-first with threats of supply shortages, and now with a ‘massive price offensive’ during the Easter travel period”.
