It’s only been alive less than a day, but Israel’s pell-mell government is already showing cracks between its disparate flanks after Labor party head Amir Peretz indicates he will pursue less capitalist-friendly policies as economy minister.
Incoming Economy Minister Amir Peretz at a changeover ceremony in Jerusalem on May 18 2020. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
“The strength of those who held extreme economic stances that led to piggish capitalism in earlier governments is smaller in this coalition, and this gives us a bigger chance to advance humane economics,” he says in a speech upon entering his new office.
Likud MK Shlomo Karai says Peretz’s humane economics will translate to increased regulations and red tape for business. “This is failed fiscal policy under cover of being humane. A wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
Yamina MK Matan Kahane also speaks out, complaining that “piggish socialism of giving out public money to pressure groups made up of Mapai associates has returned to a key position in the economy.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been a major proponent of deregulation, which he has credited with opening up the economy.
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From the Liveblog of
Monday, May 18, 2020
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