The fight against the coronavirus pandemic also applies to Olaf Scholz and the federal government: the black zero is - for now. The virus could have a significant budgetary impact.
- Budget 2021
- Olaf Scholz and the federal government plan with a black zero
- Coronavirus pandemic could have an impact
The federal government plans to continue with a black zero for the 2021 budget, regardless of the corona crisis . This emerges from the cornerstones of Finance Minister Olaf Scholz (SPD) for the budget, which were approved by the cabinet on Wednesday. The budget volume should therefore be 370.3 billion euros next year, 2.3 percent more than the budget for the coming year.
Finance minister Scholz plans to continue with record investments, at the same time the citizens should be relieved of the basic pension and the reduction of the solidarity surcharge. The black zero should remain, so Scholz does not want to make new debts.
Corona virus with an impact on the household
As in 2020, 42.9 billion euros have been earmarked for investments. "The government is continuing on its course, which is geared towards social cohesion and strengthening the future and innovative capacity of our country," said the Ministry of Finance.
The #investment offensive continues with the key figures for the # 2021 federal budget. The #investments increase compared to the current financial plan by a total of € 12.4 billion to a record level of € 171.6 billion for 2021 to 2024. pic.twitter.com/XXi53UfXUN
- BMF (@BMF_Bund) March 18, 2020"The fight against the consequences of the corona virus will of course have a significant impact on budget planning for 2021," said Scholz. However, this will only be taken into account in the course of further consultations. Scholz also confirmed that substantial funds will be made available for this as early as 2020.
Many economists expect Germany to slip into a recession - tax revenues are likely to collapse as a result. According to the next tax estimate in May, this should be incorporated retrospectively. "We can and will do everything to lead our country through this difficult time," promised Scholz .
Budget: No new debt despite corona crisis
The cabinet decision also includes medium-term financial planning up to 2024. Here too, no new debt is planned. The budget volume is expected to increase to 387.0 billion euros by 2024. The federal government's investments over the entire financial planning period should amount to EUR 171.6 billion, significantly more than in the past legislative period.
sbh / afp / dpa
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