(de-news.net) – According to media reports, Carsten Linnemann, General-Secretary of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has urged the governing coalition to cease internal discussions concerning potential tax increases. He reportedly reiterated that such measures are not stipulated within the coalition agreement and are therefore not expected to be implemented. Linnemann characterized the ongoing debate as misdirected, suggesting that it detracts from addressing more pressing national concerns, including economic decline and the transformative implications of artificial intelligence. He expressed apprehension that prolonged deliberations over marginal tax adjustments fail to advance Germany’s strategic economic and social objectives.
In his appeal to coalition partners, Linnemann reportedly acknowledged progress in migration policy, noting initial shortcomings while emphasizing that all stakeholders had gained experience and recognized their respective responsibilities. He underscored the importance of avoiding repeated policy errors in future legislative efforts.
As part of the anticipated social reform agenda, Linnemann advocated for enhanced efficiency within the healthcare sector. He reportedly supported the expansion of incentive-based programmes administered by health insurance providers, arguing that individuals should receive greater recognition for assuming personal responsibility in managing their health. Furthermore, he indicated that patients may need to accept longer travel distances for certain medical treatments, implying a potential restructuring of the geographic distribution of specialist services.
When questioned regarding possible reductions in benefits, Linnemann reportedly refrained from offering definitive assurances. He stated that the existing healthcare system contains substantial financial resources that could be allocated with greater precision and effectiveness. While acknowledging that changes may be forthcoming—particularly in treatment modalities and the regional concentration of medical expertise—he emphasized that relevant commissions are currently engaged in deliberations, and that premature conclusions would be inappropriate.
The debate surrounding tax policy was recently reignited by Federal Finance Minister and SPD Chairman Lars Klingbeil, who reportedly introduced the possibility of tax increases into public discourse.
