OECD Economic Surveys: Germany 2006
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OECD Economic Surveys: Germany 2006

This 2006 edition of OECD's periodic survey of Germany's economy finds economic activity still weak and uneven, and recommends reforms in a number of areas. Special chapters cover regaining fiscal credibility and improving public efficiency; improving the education system, gaining flexibility in the labour market, and opening up competition in services and network industries.
Publication Date :
17 July 2006
DOI :
10.1787/eco_surveys-deu-2006-en
 
Chapter
 

Regaining Fiscal Credibility and Improving Public Sector Efficiency You do not have access to this content

Authors:
OECD
Pages :
49–77
DOI :
10.1787/eco_surveys-deu-2006-4-en

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Despite substantial structural reductions in government spending relative to GDP in recent years, the government debt ratio has reached high levels and expected ageing-related spending increases remain significant. While steps have been taken to lower the government deficit from 2007 onwards, including an increase in the standard VAT rate, further measures to ensure that government finances are on a sustainable basis should include further consolidation through better prioritisation of government spending. A stronger commitment to consolidation at all levels of government is necessary, inter alia by ending the bailing-out of states in financial difficulties. Reform of fiscal federal relations should include disentangling legislative responsibilities and reducing co-funding across levels of government, as well as widening the scope for sub-national governments to raise their own tax revenue.
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