The cows in Germany have probably been infected by the ingredients in milk substitutes used to feed the calves. Lately even Italy has had its first case. Mad cows munch ministers Consumers all over the continent have reacted with panic and sales of beef have plummeted. In Germany in particular consumers accused their administration of a false information policy. And when in November the department of Sanity finally got evidence of the disease in German stables, Mrs. Fischer, who was at the same time busy with an intrigued financial reform of the public-health system, lost more precious time before informing the public and banning the risky material.
German citizens are among the most sensible about ecological questions.
It was therefore a special disappointment to see a Green minister fail on such a crucial question. Already under attack for her failures in cutting the costs of the health sector, Mrs. Fischer tried to resist, but when even her party mates turned away, on 9th January she decided to resign. Minister Funcke had already signalized his weary and followed the same evening. A department for consumer protection Chancellor Schr der reacted to the crisis nominating two women as new ministers, switching the departments between the coalition partners and redesigning their competencies. The chancellor has thus strengthened consumer protection in the government structure, creating a new strong department including important competencies previously scattered over several other ministries.