BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Schleswig-Holstein's Minister President Daniel Günther has little sympathy for the coalition committee's decision to initially reduce the electricity tax only to a limited extent and at the same time extend the maternity pension as early as possible. "That is, at the very least, a strange set of priorities," said the CDU politician on Politico's "Berlin Playbook Podcast" (Friday). He had assumed that an agreement would be reached on a comprehensive electricity tax cut for private households as well. "The fact that no agreement was reached on this issue is a minus point."
On the impact on the governing coalition of the CDU/CSU and SPD, he said: "That's a shame because it dampens the initial momentum a little." In general, however, the CDU politician said the coalition had got off to a good start.
Günther defended Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) against criticism from the CDU. Some in his party had said that Klingbeil was now to blame for everything. "I think it's wrong to discuss it that way. Everyone is responsible."
The leaders of the CDU/CSU and SPD confirmed their decision not to reduce the electricity tax for private consumers for the time being, as had been announced in the coalition agreement. However, relief is to come in the form of a reduction in electricity grid fees and the abolition of the gas storage levy. The reduction in the electricity tax for manufacturing companies is to be made permanent.
At the same time, it was agreed to extend the mother's pension as of 2027 if possible. It is to be regulated uniformly for all mothers. Until now, child-rearing periods for children born before 1992 have been credited less generously to pension accounts. /toz/DP/stw
