Mask Procurement Report Sparks Controversy in Germany

Allegations of overpriced contracts surface against former Health Minister Jens Spahn.

A report investigating mask procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic has ignited a political firestorm in Germany, with accusations leveled against former Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn concerning potentially overpriced contracts.

Merz Defends Spahn

On ARD television, Friedrich Merz defended Spahn, who is a fellow party member. He said Spahn was given an opportunity to be heard regarding the report’s accusations. Merz implied that not allowing Spahn to respond would indicate bias.

Report Details

**Karl Lauterbach**, Spahn’s successor and also an SPD politician, commissioned lawyer and SPD politician Sudhof to produce the report. The report alleges that Spahn finalized overpriced contracts, disregarding guidance from his specialist departments.

The BBC reported in 2023 that PPE contracts awarded by the UK government during the pandemic also faced scrutiny, with concerns raised about value for money and transparency (BBC News).

Spahn’s Rebuttal

Spahn, a member of the CDU, has refuted all allegations contained within the report. It remains to be seen how this situation will continue to unfold.