This whole issue really underlies the fundamental flaws in the EU. Brussels are unhappy that the German government won't just play ball and cough up. Democracy [the majority of the German public] getting in the way again! Why can't the French, Dutch, Belgians, etc cough up the money? I really feel sorry for the Germans and the fact they are going to have to stomach this. Be clear as well that this is not a loan. If the UK was in the Euro we'd be paying in as well. I'm pretty sure we are anyway really (through things like the CAP). UKIP at the polls anyone?