The fight for equality in funding
Carlos Mazón, president of the Generalitat Valenciana and a leading figure of the Popular Party in the Valencian Community, has expressed his firm opposition to what he considers unequal treatment in the financing of the autonomous communities. In a recent interview, Mazón criticised an agreement between the PSC and ERC, which proposes a special financing regime for Catalonia, stating that this could create a ‘wall’ of inequality in Spain.
Unity in the Popular Party
During his speech on Antena 3, Mazón stressed the cohesion within the PP in relation to regional financing. He assured that there is not ‘the slightest crack’ of division between the Popular Party regional presidents on this issue, and he emphasised the need to establish a ‘wall’ against the lack of solidarity and privileges that could arise from government decisions.
Challenges in Government Clarity
Mazón questioned the Government’s ability to manage the issue of financing, suggesting that it lacks a clear direction and does not know how to address the situation. This opinion, according to him, is shared by socialist figures such as Joaquín Almunia and Josep Borrell, who have also expressed their concern about the lack of clarity in the Executive’s intentions.
Criticism of the PSOE and the need for solidarity
The leader of the Popular Party did not hesitate to criticise the PSOE, highlighting that its current approach to funding is a contradiction with the principles of solidarity that it has historically defended. According to Mazón, the fact that those who have more should contribute less is a concept that should not be supported by any social democrat or liberal. This transformation in the PSOE’s position seems to him ‘a great surprise’ and a step backwards in terms of social justice.
Proposals for a fair financing system
In his call for a fair reform of financing, Mazón stressed the need for all autonomous communities to start on equal terms. He made special mention of the situation in Valencia and Murcia, highlighting that they require a levelling fund to reach a level of financing comparable to that of other regions. ‘It is not about looking for singularities that separate us, but about building an equitable base for all,’ he said.
Preparing for future negotiations
Mazón concluded his speech by pointing out that the Partido Popular remains firm in its position that all autonomous regions should start from the same point in terms of financing. From there, the uniqueness of each territory could be discussed in the context of the small print of any agreement that is proposed.
