Olaf Scholz to succeed Merkel as German parties strike coalition deal

Olaf Scholz is set to become Germany’s next chancellor after striking a coalition deal between the Social Democrats, Greens and liberals.

Scholz will succeed Angela Merkel who has served as Germany’s leader since 2005.

The 26 September election was a slim victory for Scholz’ Social Democrats, and today’s agreement is the result of almost two months of intense negotiations.

This unconventional alliance will likely prioritise investment in tackling climate change.

Meanwhile the FDP has vowed not to introduce tax hikes and nor change  Germany’s constitutional rules on new debt.