 The underlying problem arose from differing interpretations of the policy called "unity of economic and social policy" "("Einheit von Wirtschafts- und Sozialpolitik")" inaugurated in June 1971 under the leadership of Erich Honecker as an attempt to make the country economically self-financing through a return to a "micro-managing" approach to economic planning, focusing on growth sectors including electronics, plastic and chemicals.Ulbricht had been removed from power in May 1971 by Erich Honecker, whose interpretation of the policy incorporated massive borrowing, much of which was consciously applied not to increased investment but to increased consumption.It was Schürer's position that the rapid growth in borrowing was unsustainable and, in the longer term, a route to national bankruptcy.