Application on energy price shocks due to the Iran war (recommendation)

In particular, the Bundestag voted on a recommendation for a resolution on a proposal from the AfD parliamentary group, which deals with possible energy price shocks as a result of an escalating conflict in the Middle East. The background to the application is the concern that an interruption of important transport routes such as the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a shortage of oil and gas on the world market and thus to further significant increases in energy prices. The applicants see this as significant risks for consumers and companies in Germany, as rising energy prices could increase inflation and put a strain on economic development. In addition, attention is drawn to already high energy costs and possible negative effects on industry, investments and consumption. Specifically, a prepared relief package is required in the event of an energy shortage. These include, in particular, tax cuts on energy, a reduction in electricity tax, the reduction of energy taxes to EU minimum levels and a suspension of national CO₂ pricing. In order to avoid further price increases, the sales tax on natural gas, district heating as well as gasoline, diesel and electricity should be reduced to the reduced rate of seven percent for a limited time. In addition, measures at EU level to reduce CO₂ certificate prices should be examined and ensure that relief actually reaches consumers. The vote was taken on the recommendation of the Committee for Economic Affairs and Energy on the AfD parliamentary group's proposal. With the acceptance of the recommended resolution, the application was rejected with 445 yes votes to 138 no votes with no abstentions.