German politician sounds softer tone

In his first speech since agreeing to coalition talks with Angela Merkel’s conservatives, the leader of the Social Democrats delivered an impassioned defence of European bailouts, saying Germany’s own success hinged on that of its neighbours.

Speaking to union members in Hanover, SPD chairman Sigmar Gabriel also said his party would press for bolder measures to boost growth in talks with Merkel, describing high youth unemployment as Europe’s “biggest disgrace”.

He said Germany’s future depended on Europe and helping other countries meant Germany was helping its own interests.

“Let us not forget that Europe is not a burden for Germany; it is not a weight on our shoulders; quite the contrary. Our economic future depends on the future of Europe.

“We are not helping other countries just because we’re good people, because we want to soothe our conscience and be nice. We are also helping because it serves our own interests.

“We need to stabilise Europe because otherwise joblessness and growth problems will spread to our country.”

The comments by Gabriel, who is expected to become deputy chancellor and take a top cabinet post under Merkel, suggested that a new grand coalition government could adopt a softer, more conciliatory tone towards struggling southern euro members such as Greece and Portgual.

During the election campaign, the SPD accused Merkel of failing to make the case for European rescues with the German public and insisting too much on austerity at the expense of growth.

Some of Berlin’s partners, including France, are holding out hope that the entry of the SPD into her government could lead to changes in Merkel’s European policy, but any shift is likely to be more rhetorical than substantive.