In common with most leading economies, it has now decided that this must change. Changing this is situation is going to prove a tough challenge.
Berlin is in a mess.
Only a vote of no confidence separates Germany's capital city from new elections. Yet much more will be needed to put the city's finances to rights. The ruling coalition of Social Democrats and Christian Democrats has been dissolved because of the scandal at the Berliner Bank. The Berliner Bank's debts look set to haunt the city for years. Swingeing cuts will be needed to balance the books as well as far-reaching change.