Germany Claims Billions for Truck Toll Delays

The German government has demanded the Toll Collect consortium pay it €3.56 billion ($4.33 billion) in damages for delays to the start of a nationwide satellite-based truck toll system. The transport ministry also called for an additional €1 billion fine to be levied for "numerous breaches of the operator contract." Transport Minister Manfred Stolpe said in parliament on Thursday arbitration proceedings had been initiated. The consortium, which includes auto giant DaimlerChrysler and telecommunications heavyweight Deutsche Telekom, said the demands were not justified.