PRESSURE is growing within Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SDP) to at least discuss the possibility of forming a new government with Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conservatives.

SPD leader Martin Schulz ruled out returning to the current “grand coalition” with Merkel after leading his party to a disastrous result in September’s election, but appeared to soften his stance before a meeting yesterday with President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who has urged politicians to compromise.

“The SPD is fully aware of its responsibility in the current difficult situation,” Schulz said. “I’m sure we will find a good solution for our country in the coming days and weeks.”

Merkel’s failure to reach a deal with the environmentalist Greens and the pro-business Free Democrats after four weeks of talks put all of Germany’s mainstream parties on the spot. If no one budges, the options are a minority government – never previously tried – or a new election.

Several Social Democrats, including the party’s deputy leader, while expressing scepticism, have suggested their party should discuss another coalition with Merkel or support for a minority government led by her.