(de-news.net) – CDU General Secretary Linnemann has rejected the SPD’s proposal to engage in discussions regarding the reform of the debt brake. Linnemann reaffirmed the CDU’s steadfast commitment to the debt brake, dismissing SPD attempts to reinterpret CDU president Friedrich Merz’s position. SPD leaders Esken and Miersch had suggested dialogues on modifying borrowing regulations, with SPD president Saskia Esken concurring the notion of permitting borrowing for investments. The debt brake restricts government borrowing, with exceptions for natural disasters and extraordinary emergencies.
FDP Vice Chairman Wolfgang Kubicki now advocates for a more flexible approach to the debt brake, as recommended by economic experts. He posits that if a crisis extends beyond a year, annual approvals should not be requisite. Economic advisors proposed transitional measures to gradually reduce debt post-crisis and adjust deficit limits based on debt ratios.
In another development, in the aftermath of the coalition’s dissolution, the Union faction has indicated its support for amending the Regionalization Act to secure funding for the Deutschlandticket. Decisions will be deferred until after Chancellor Scholz’s vote of confidence in mid-December, however. The nationwide ticket, currently priced at 49 euros, is set to increase to 58 euros next year, with federal and state governments each contributing 1.5 billion euros.