The discussion about the correct approach to Corona policy is once again causing tensions within the traffic light coalition. While the SPD prefers a citizens’ assembly, the FDP insists on setting up a Bundestag study commission. Stephan Thomae, Parliamentary Managing Director of the FDP, made this clear in a conversation with the German Press Agency. The liberals believe that social reflection alone is insufficient and advocate a thorough political and scientific investigation. Members of parliament and experts would work together in a study commission. Thomae also seemed convinced that the SPD had no real interest in a comprehensive investigation. SPD parliamentary group vice-president Dagmar Schmidt also expressed regret at the lack of agreement within the coalition so far. The SPD wants a complete analysis at all levels – from the federal to state to local authorities – and includes the involvement of citizens. This internal dispute is also fueled by demands from outside. The Alliance Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) and the AfD support the idea of a Corona investigation committee. During the phase of the outbreak of the pandemic in Germany, Corona policy was largely controlled by the Ministry of Health, then under the leadership of Jens Spahn (CDU). Karl Lauterbach (SPD) later took over this role, while the main guidelines were initially given in the Chancellery by Angela Merkel (CDU) and then by Olaf Scholz (SPD).
