Despite a majority rejection by its party conference, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Schleswig-Holstein, led by Minister President Daniel Günther, continues to advocate for a sugar tax. Günther has indicated the issue remains unresolved and announced plans to pursue the tax through a Bundesrat initiative.
CDU Party Conference Rejects Proposal
The CDU party conference rejected a sugar tax proposal put forward by Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister President Daniel Günther. However, Günther stated, “The issue of the sugar tax has not been settled,” and intends to utilize the Bundesrat to advance the measure.
Günther expressed frustration with the debate at the party conference, asserting that the arguments presented were unrelated to youth protection. He characterized the opposition as stemming from concerns about potential economic impacts, a claim he disputes, citing examples like the United Kingdom. He stated his commitment to continued advocacy for the tax.
At the CDU party conference, delegates followed the recommendation of the application commission and rejected Günther’s proposal. CDU Deputy General Secretary Christina Stumpp argued that a sugar tax represents “green paternalism” rather than health policy, questioning its effectiveness and potential disruption to daily life.
Günther maintains that a sugar tax is not a market economy instrument but an opportunity to minimize healthcare costs, prioritizing public health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the CDU party conference?
The CDU party conference rejected a sugar tax proposal from Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister President Daniel Günther, following the recommendation of the application commission.
What is Daniel Günther’s response to the rejection?
Daniel Günther stated that the issue of the sugar tax is not settled and intends to pursue the tax through a Bundesrat initiative.
What arguments were made against the sugar tax?
Opponents, including CDU Deputy General Secretary Christina Stumpp, argued that a sugar tax is “green paternalism” and would negatively impact citizens’ daily lives.
Will Minister President Günther succeed in implementing a sugar tax despite internal party opposition?
