Kohl's CDU Unveils 10-Point Programme Ahead of German Elections

Strategic Insights -

In a bold move to secure victory for their coalition with the liberal Free Democrats (FDP) in Sunday's general election, German Chancellor Helmut Kohl's Christian Democrats (CDU) have presented a 10-point programme for government. The programme, unveiled during Kohl's third term, includes tax cuts for environmentally friendly cars and petrol, legislation for part-time working, and deregulation and privatization. Despite the FDP's recent string of regional election defeats, opinion polls suggest they are on track to clear the 5% hurdle and return to the Bundestag.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CDU's 10-point programme includes tax cuts for environmentally friendly cars and petrol, legislating for part-time working, and deregulating and privatizing various industries.
  • Opinion polls suggest the FDP is on track to clear the 5% hurdle and return to the Bundestag, despite suffering seven regional election defeats in a year.
  • The CDU's junior partner, the FDP, is reportedly discussing merging several ministries under one roof and fighting for the post-election spoils, including the foreign or economic ministry.
  • The Social Democrats, led by Rudolf Scharping, have launched a last-minute appeal to voters, presenting themselves as the low-taxation, low-spending party and ruling out any deals with the ex-communist PDS.
  • The PDS is currently polling under 4% and may not win the three directly elected seats in east Germany it needs to get back into parliament.

Statistics:

  • 5%: The minimum threshold for a party to secure representation in the Bundestag.
  • 3-7 points: The lead in opinion polls suggesting Chancellor Kohl's coalition has over the opposition.
  • 18: The current number of cabinet seats in Germany.
  • 13: Proposed reduction in cabinet seats as part of the CDU's programme.
  • 153: The number of different claims in the German social security system.
  • 37: The number of separate departmental offices handling these claims.

Sources:

  • "Bonn Blows Back in Fight for Polls" by DAVID GOW, Bonn.