German judges take their time despite euro crisis

The German Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe announced on Monday the date on which it will deliver its ruling on the ESM euro bailout fund. The judgement on the corresponding urgent appeals can be expected for September 12. According to the left-liberal Frankfurter Rundschau it's good that the judges are taking their time to examine the case despite the euro crisis: "By setting a date, and above all by announcing it this early, the judges are making it clear that they are not indifferent to the consequences of their actions. They are availing themselves of the right to thoroughly scrutinise a serious issue. But they are not ignoring warnings that haste is called for. … Chancellor Merkel would have liked to have had more time. She is urging everyone in Europe to implement the promised reforms and cutbacks swiftly. But when it comes to the most crucial rescue operation, the construction of the permanent ESM euro stability fund, Germany is lagging behind. This is embarrassing for her. However the judges' approach has two advantages: firstly, everyone knows now when things will finally be clear. And secondly Karlsruhe will use the summary proceedings to establish its position on the main issue. ... On September 12 the world will know whether this euro bailout is compatible with Germany's Basic Law and can proceed."

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