Merkel’s crisis coalition talks to avoid poll

ANGELA Merkel was last night locked in crisis coalition talks that could decide her future as German Chancellor.

After a lacklustre performance at the polls in September, Miss Merkel was desperately seeking an unlikely partnership to avoid snap elections.

While still regarded as the EU’s most powerful and influential politician, she faces negotiating compromises over policies relating to immigration limits, the climate and EU defence plans.

In order to secure a fourth term, Miss Merkel’s conservative Christian Democrats were in discussions through the night to secure a ragtag coalition with the liberal Free Democrats and Greens. Previous talks have been mired by repeat clashes over dozens of policy issues.

If the Thursday coalition deadline is not met, there may be no option but to call another election. Commentators fear the far-right Alternative for Germany could capitalise on a return to the polls.