GBF LogoGBF Banner

The German-British Forum brings together practical and independent people whose aim is to enhance cooperation at all levels between the two countries.

View from London

Continuing good news from Germany

With growth forecasts regularly being revised upwards in recent months, it appears that Germany is back on track in terms of economic growth. In addition to the resulting higher tax revenues, the reduction in unemployment will take the pressure off the public purse so that the budget deficit can, in theory, disappear rather sooner than later. But for this to happen, it is important for the government not to spend the extra money. This is particularly imperative as rock solid public finances are needed to cater for demographic developments over the coming decades. The need for restraint is also a crucial message for the UK, as despite very good growth rates in recent years, the budget still shows a substantial deficit which may not be sustainable in the event of an economic slowdown. Therefore, Gordon Brown will still have his work cut out for him.

On the political front, Chancellor Merkel’s presidency of the EU has opened up new opportunities for practical co-operation as a common interest between the UK and Germany has emerged in terms of combating climate change. Both countries appear to have developed a willingness to address this issue and take a lead to convince others of the urgency for action. In addition, joint efforts in this field could also show the rest of Europe that a lot can be achieved without solely focussing on institutional set ups. Furthermore. work needs to continue on liberalising Europe’s economies especially as we have seen some nationalistic tendencies in recent take-over battles. Both the British and the German governments can take a lead and, if they do so, they will find many followers – especially amongst the smaller member states which suffer most from overprotective behaviour. I am also confident that Germany’s interest in driving forward Europe will not whither after the end of her presidency and hope that the EU will be able to develop a new drive towards greater liberalisation.

 

Click here to find out more about the German-British Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

 

Email us to book a place at future conferences

 

GBF HIGHSPOTS

 

European Monetary Policy and World Capital Markets

 

Strategic Challenges and Political Perspectives

 

Hamburg

Wednesday 5th November 2008

 

Click here to book

 

 

Marsh on Monday

Click here to read Marsh on Monday

Two Fed chiefs with wildly contrasting legacies

David Marsh, Chairman, London & Oxford Capital Markets, says the Chairmanship of the Fed is, and always has been, a deeply political office. More

Bischof's Broadside

Click here to read Bischof's Broadside

Winners and losers from the credit crunch

Bob Bischof, veteran Anglo-German businessman, reflects on the current economic and financial climate. More

Letter from Berlin

Click here to read Letter from Berlin

Will Germany’s parties come up with the goods?

Andreas Meyer-Schwickerath, Managing Director, British Chamber of Commerce in Germany, says Germany's parties need more courage in formulating their policies. More

 

 

© 1994-2008 The German British Forum, Charity Number 1069888. All rights reserved.