FDP politician Gerhart Baum calls for a more realistic approach to the party's energy policy

Former FDP politician Gerhart Baum has called for a more realistic approach to the party's energy policy, saying that a complete withdrawal from nuclear power would be "suicide".

Baum, who served as FDP chairman from 1974 to 1985, said that the party's current policy of phasing out nuclear power by 2030 was unrealistic and would lead to a loss of jobs and economic growth.

He said that the FDP should instead focus on developing renewable energy sources and investing in new technologies.

Baum's comments come as the FDP is facing pressure from both within the party and from outside to reconsider its energy policy.

Some FDP members have argued that the party should adopt a more pro-nuclear stance, while others have called for a complete phase-out of nuclear power.

The FDP is currently part of the ruling coalition government in Germany, which has pledged to phase out nuclear power by 2030.

However, the government has also said that it is open to extending the lifespan of some nuclear power plants if necessary.

Baum's comments are likely to add to the debate within the FDP about the party's energy policy.

He is a respected figure within the party and his views carry weight.

It remains to be seen whether his comments will lead to a change in the FDP's energy policy.