Party votes to open talks on German coalition

Germany’s Social Democrats have voted to open talks on forming a new government with Chancellor Angela Merkel’s Christian Democratic Union.

The move came after party leaders urged members to overcome their apprehensions for the good of the country and stability of Europe.

Delegates of the centreleft party voted 362 to 279 in favour of opening coalition negotiations.

The vote was a major step towards ending the political gridlock that has prevented a new government from being formed.

Social Democratic leader Martin Schulz called it “a key moment in the history of our party”. Before a new government can be established, another vote by the Social Democrats’ membership will have to be held on the final coalition agreement.