Lafontaine was seen as the arch-exponent of the hard left in Germany,

The hope that Germany would be a shining European example for accelerated reforms has been dashed,

Germany does not need abstract economic ideas; it needs labor market reforms.

We may still get a deal but it may not be thorough enough.

I dislike the VAT hike tremendously, I don't think it's necessary.

I dislike the V.A.T. hike tremendously.