A growing sense of discontent within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) is being directed towards Economics Minister Katarina Reiche (CDU), following her recent proposal regarding a potential increase in the retirement age. Several SPD parliamentarians, aligned with the Seeheimer Circle – a group known for its conservative stance within the party – have voiced criticism, arguing the proposal fails to address the root of the issue and lacks sufficient nuance, according to a report in “Der Spiegel”.
Dirk Wiese, spokesperson for the Seeheimer Circle and Esra Limbacher, General Secretary of the Saarland SPD, urged Minister Reiche to prioritize her core responsibilities as Economics Minister. They emphasized that any serious consideration of extending working lives necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the realities facing the labor market.
Beyond the pension reform debate, SPD members are also expressing reservations about the recent trade agreement reached between the European Commission and the United States government. Concerns center on the potential risks to a key European industry given the 50% tariffs imposed on steel. They are calling for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to reconsider aspects of the agreement.
The SPD parliamentarians are now demanding tangible action from Minister Reiche, rather than simply advocating for policy. They specifically request she convene a summit involving steel companies and labor unions and to present a clear roadmap for affordable energy prices. The German government, they assert, cannot passively observe the potential decline of the steel industry.
