Do we have any information on the substantial areas of policy dispute? Or is it mere political opportunism? I can't see there being huge ideological differences between the CDU and FDP...? Perhaps the FDP and Greens have diametrically opposed policy objectives and can't both be included in the same coalition?

Seems like AfD will be the net beneficiaries unless the German electorate take the view they have given Merkel a sufficiently bloody nose and warning as to future conduct and are happy to revert to business as normal after another election?

Or will AfD voters be energised by their success in disrupting 'business as usual'?  Will the SDP relent before or after another election?  Is this Schultz' last chance of a major role in German politics?

Index of Frank's Diaries