German Minister of Finance Peer Steinbrueck Tuesday rejected calls for any short term measures to help cut soaring energy prices, calling instead for more energy efficiency and lower consumption.
"This is the right response to rising energy prices," Steinbrueck told reporters while presenting a report on his ministry's energy efficiency.
"Rising energy prices won't be surmounted with short term measures," he said.
He stressed that energy efficiency and lower consumption would be the right response to rapidly rising energy prices for western countries and the U.S.
Several politicians have called on the government to give tax breaks to all commuters, and also to help the less well off with heating and energy assistance.
Oil and power prices have soared to record highs in recent weeks.