Session Profile: Lauri Laats

At the plenary sitting of the IV session of the XV Riigikogu, members of the Centre Party Group are taking an oppositional stance against the coalition: they emphasize the protection of the economy, regional inequality, and criticism regarding the accelerating pace of the green transition. They are strongly opposed to the rapid implementation of the green transition, arguing that the development of Estonian production and the benefit to the EU economy must be prioritized before introducing a radical green shift. They also stress the importance of ensuring affordable electricity and strengthening the business environment, as well as reducing dependence on China.

Demonstrates an understanding of the impact on the economy and employment, as well as the economic implications of the green transition, highlighting specific data (e.g., 80% of materials originating from China) and discussing the role of regional economies and infrastructure. It emphasizes the context of the European Union and the importance of production units so that the benefits of the green transition can also reach the Estonian economy.

Speaks in a combative and emotional tone, often in the form of questions and strong assertions; uses dramatic gestures and examples, including a fist striking the podium, to maximize impact. The text also possesses a partially analytical, but primarily critical and combative style.

Actively participates in multiple speeches during the same sitting; represents the Centre Faction and consistently voices criticism against the coalition on several issues. The text reflects sequential participation and the repeated presentation of these topics during a single plenary sitting.

The Centre Faction is fiercely oppositional: criticism is aimed at the government’s decisions and the rushed handling of draft legislation. It emphasizes that the coalition has caused damage to businesses and people’s lives. The intensity is high, and the possibility of compromise appears to be non-existent or severely limited; the bills may be voted down.

It indicates a certain readiness for discussion and potential cooperation (e.g., regarding the lowering of VAT on food), but simultaneously highlights the coalition's internal disagreements and divergent views. It points to opportunities for cooperation and discussion with the minister, while maintaining a critical stance toward the government coalition.

It clearly focuses attention on regional policy and the welfare of rural areas; it highlights regional inequality and the intractable divide between the "two Estonias." Specific examples include the disparity between Southeast Estonia and the Tallinn-Harju region, as well as general regional economic gaps.

The priorities for the economy are affordable electricity, developing domestic production, and mitigating global supply chain disruptions. He/She refuses to allow continued growth in dependency on China and stresses that the effectiveness of the green transition must be economically sensible and serve the interests of national employment and consumers. He/She recommends sensible subsidies in food and tax policy (such as lowering VAT on food) and increasing social expenditures to cushion the impact of inflation.

Stands for a robust social standard: free school meals must remain, and the tax burden on foodstuffs should be reduced. He acknowledges the impact of consumption taxes on food prices and emphasizes that regional policy must guarantee a rise in the standard of living in rural areas. At the same time, he also discusses the financial well-being of families and the population, and the reduction of regional inequality.

The main legislative priorities include lowering the VAT on food and maintaining subsidies related to school meals and all associated support. It is emphasized that the legal framework for accelerating the green transition must correspond to economic and regional needs. The agenda includes the review of draft legislation procedures and proposed amendments, along with the assessment of their impact. Furthermore, emphasis is placed on regional competitiveness and legal solutions for ensuring the sustainability of food production.