VIENNA: This week, the National Council will be debating, among other things, resolutions on simplifying large-scale proceedings and abolishing the adhesive vignette, according to ORF News. Recent events at the Chamber of Commerce and high food prices are also likely to be discussed.
The Cabinet is expected to approve the new law against “shrinkflation,” i.e., reduced packaging contents at the same or higher prices, and then forward it to Parliament. The bill cannot yet be passed, but it can be discussed, as a (non-binding) resolution on the topic is on the agenda.
The simplification of large-scale proceedings is on the agenda for Wednesday; these will be possible with as few as 50 participants. Furthermore, the use of non official experts is to be made generally easier. The abolition of the adhesive vignette is on the agenda for Thursday. The amendment also includes an adjustment to the truck toll.
There are already signs of activity regarding the upcoming parliamentary inquiry into the Pilnacek affair. The Freedom Party (FPÖ) is introducing a legislative initiative to enable live broadcasts of committee hearings. Another FPÖ legislative proposal includes a “duty to tell the truth” when the federal government answers parliamentary inquiries.
Finally, a decision must be made regarding the “extradition” of a case. This concerns controversial statements made by Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) MP Franz Hörl about the culling of wolves. He was acquitted in the first instance. However, since he has been reinstated as a member of parliament, the approval of the Parliament is required to pursue the public prosecutor’s appeal.
