Brussels (dpa) – Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz is under fire from the Social Democrats for his remarks on the EU Parliament’s decision regarding the supply chain law. “It is inappropriate for a national leader like Chancellor Merz to criticize the European Parliament, which operates independently of him, for a decision made by a democratic majority,” stated René Repasi, chairman of the Europe-SPD. He emphasized that the EU Parliament is not a “rubber-stamp organization” for governmental preferences.
Merz had previously labeled the vote outcome on the EU supply chain law as a “fatal misjudgment.” “The decision by the European Parliament yesterday is unacceptable,” Merz remarked in Brussels, advocating for relaxation of regulations for businesses. However, a proposed compromise faltered in the European Parliament on Wednesday, with many suggesting that particularly Social Democrats opposed the compromise.
EU Parliament President also defends the decision
This situation necessitates a new vote on the proposal’s content in November, potentially sparking vital negotiations with EU member states for either stricter or considerably weaker regulations. SPD member Repasi mentioned that the SPD aims to constructively participate in this process to reach a balanced result.
EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola also dismissed Merz’s criticisms of the institution’s decision. “I do not question the democratic independence and institutional authority of the Parliament to uphold its position and represent the citizens,” Metsola stated. (October 23)
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