Ally crisis for Merkel

CHANCELLOR Angela Merkel was left battling for political survival yesterday after high-stakes talks to form a new government collapsed – plunging Germany into a crisis that could see it hold fresh elections.

Mrs Merkel’s efforts to form a three-way coalition government that would secure herself a fourth term have hit a major setback after a would-be coalition partner unexpectedly pulled out of talks, thrusting Germany into a political crisis.