Frustration Amid Tax Discussions: A Party That Shuns Responsibility (Finansavisen)
The Progress Party (FRP) has declined an invitation from former Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg to participate in a proposed tax commission, deeming it a misallocation of time and resources. However, they are open to negotiating a settlement, as reported by Finansavisen on Thursday.
– Our priority must be lowering taxes and fees. The government needs to be transparent; it can either negotiate a tax settlement with the left or come to the table with us. The idea that Rødt, MDG, SV, and FRP could collaborate on a tax agreement is a fantasy, says Sylvi Listhaug to Finansavisen.
In response, Stoltenberg remarked:
– The Progress Party demonstrates a consistent reluctance to assume responsibility and is uninterested in forging common solutions. This approach undermines the interests of Norwegian businesses, he stated to Finansavisen. Read more
Norway and the UK Forge New Defense Pact – A Joint Frigate Fleet Takes Shape (NTB)
Norway and the United Kingdom have solidified a new defense agreement that will allow British personnel and equipment in Norway, alongside the establishment of a combined frigate fleet.
– This initiative aims to deepen military ties between Norway and the UK, bolstering NATO’s northern flank and enhancing our presence in the North Atlantic, said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (Ap) in a press release.
– This agreement will significantly enhance security for Norway, the UK, and our allies during these turbulent times, he added.
The defense pact is set to be signed today in London by Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik (Ap) and British Defense Minister John Healey, who will also meet with Støre on the same day. Read more
Poll Reveals Clear Bourgeois Majority (NTB)
A recent party poll from Opinion indicates that the four bourgeois parties collectively hold 92 mandates, while the Red-Greens grapple with budget negotiations.
The FRP stands out as the largest party in the poll, boasting a support of 26.7 percent, a slight decline of 0.1 according to reports from ABC Nyheter and Altinget.
The Liberal Party emerged as a significant victor, increasing its support by 2.2 percentage points to 4.7 percent. On the left, only Rødt witnessed growth.
– It’s encouraging to see more people recognize the importance of a liberal party advocating for a greener future and equitable opportunities for our children, alongside collaborative security efforts in Europe, stated Venstre leader Guri Melby.
MDG Leader Admits: National Monthly Card Not Yet Secured (NTB)
On Wednesday morning, the Green Party (MDG) proudly proclaimed they had fulfilled a central campaign promise: a national monthly card set to launch in 2027. However, by Wednesday afternoon, the tone had softened.
– While we aim to make this happen, we can’t guarantee it will come to fruition, MDG leader Arild Hermstad told Aftenposten.
In the state budget approved Wednesday night, the document confirms that an investigation will be conducted to explore the feasibility of a national monthly card, with three models up for consideration.
SV Deputy Leader Critiques Labor: Profit Over Lives (NTB)
SV Deputy Leader Marian Hussein expressed profound disappointment regarding the failure to address the oil fund’s investments in Israel in the state budget.
– It’s with a heavy heart that we’ve arrived at this state budget, Hussein lamented on Instagram.
Last autumn, SV demanded the oil fund withdraw from all investments considered to support Israeli war crimes and occupation, especially in Oslo.
She asserted that the Labor Party “sadly opted to prioritize profit over ethics in alliance with the Conservative Party and FRP.” In a poignant video, she stated, “History will pass judgment on Norway one day.”
SV leader Kirsti Bergstø declined to comment on whether she endorses Hussein’s criticisms, according to Dagens Næringsliv.
Climate Scientist: MDG’s Victory Provides No Cause for Celebration (DN)
Among MDG’s key achievements is the establishment of a restructuring commission tasked with developing a strategy for transitioning the oil and energy sector from fossil fuels to renewable sources by 2027.
Yet, climate researcher Bård Lahn cautions that MDG may have reason to temper their celebrations.
– The oil industry need not be overly concerned that this commission will yield significant shifts in oil policy, he remarked to DN.
Lahn fears that the new commission may only postpone disputes regarding Norwegian oil policy. Read more
Labor Minister: No Change in Oil Policy (DN)
MDG Deputy Leader Ingrid Liland expressed grand expectations when discussing what would become the party’s most notable victory in budget negotiations regarding oil.
Energy Minister Terje Aasland (Ap) expressed skepticism, believing it unlikely that the MDG’s achievements would inspire changes in Labor’s oil and gas policies, according to DN.
Nevertheless, Aasland welcomed the new commission’s role in assessing various scenarios that could enhance the adaptability, development, and competitiveness of the Norwegian economy. Read more