Dresden (dpa / sn) – Saxony’s Economics Minister Martin Dulig (SPD) has criticized mineral oil companies in view of the continued high fuel prices. It was “morally indecent” to make high profits during this time, the SPD politician emphasized on Tuesday after a cabinet meeting in Dresden. The relief sought with the so-called tank discount, for example for commuters or craft businesses, by lowering fuel prices must be guaranteed. “If the mineral oil companies don’t go along with that, I definitely support the proposal for an excess profit tax,” said Dulig.
There is currently no relief in sight at the gas stations. Petrol and diesel continued to become more expensive over the Pentecost weekend, and according to the ADAC, prices also rose on Tuesday. This is currently heating up the debate about an additional tax on the extra profits of the oil companies. The tax cut should apply until the end of August. In this way, the federal government wants to relieve consumers in view of the sharp rise in energy prices.
Economics ministers described the 9-euro ticket as a success after the first few days, but warned against taking the Pentecost and travel weekend as a benchmark for use. He hopes for a lasting effect and not for a short flash in the pan, so Dulig. It must be possible to maintain the offer in local transport even after the three months. On the Pentecost weekend in Saxony, things were a bit chaotic on some railway lines, especially at tourist hotspots, explained Dulig. Overall, the first weekend with the 9-euro ticket went well.
The ticket is also a reaction to the sharp rise in energy costs and is intended to serve as a relief measure. It is offered in June, July and August and is valid throughout Germany for one month for journeys in 2nd class on buses, trams and regional trains.
