BERLIN (dpa-AFX) – The SPD parliamentary group is sticking to the agreed reform of support for students and is strongly criticizing a different statement by the CSU research minister. “Since the SPD parliamentary group is united in its support for the implementation of the agreed BAföG reform for the benefit of tomorrow’s skilled workers, Dorothee Bär’s statements are simply wrong and not accurate,” says deputy SPD parliamentary group leader Wiebke Esdar.
“The coalition factions have jointly agreed on a Bafög reform that provides for more flexibility, the reduction of bureaucracy and an increase in the flat-rate housing allowance and standard rates.” This agreement was made on the basis of the coalition agreement and continues to apply. “Funding has already been secured together with Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD).”
Apparently there is no longer any support for the project
Research Minister Bär had previously told the Funke media group that she no longer expected a quick reform of training funding. “My house has set the course for the Bafög reform, and we are on schedule. But I have also heard that the government factions no longer support the reform,” she said. Bär showed understanding for a possible stop to the reform.
SPD parliamentary group vice-president: Bär’s statement is wrong
Esdar said: “I strongly advise the Union not to cause chaos here and to stick to what was mutually agreed after intensive and constructive negotiations.” A unilateral cancellation of the agreement would harm Germany as a location, which is dependent on well-trained young talent, and also the coalition and the democratic culture as a whole.
Bafög modernization announced in the coalition agreement
In the coalition agreement, the Union and the SPD announced that they would modernize the Bafög “in a major amendment”. As a first step, the housing allowance included in the Bafög for students who no longer live with their parents should be increased from the current 380 to 440 euros per month for the coming winter semester./abc/DP/he