by Thorsten Koch

The Federal Association of German Employers (BDA) has requested a state fund for effectively bridging assistance for companies. The funds was needed by the companies most affected by the Corona crisis as early as June, BDA chief executive Kampeter wrote to Federal Minister of Finance, Olaf Scholz (SPD), at the same time speaking out against sector-specific flashes in the pan. Instead, long-term growth was needed, he emphasized.

Altmaier for relief and tailored offers

Meanwhile, Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier (CDU) has expressed his commitment to rapid, renewed aid. He submitted ideas on how the next few weeks could be bridged for companies. He called a breather in regulation and bureaucracy and some level of relief in energy prices. The gastronomy and travel industry, for example, will not be left out in the rain. Tailored political programs are needed, but for a limited time, Altmaier said. The Federal Government is likely to present a comprehensive economic stimulus program in early June.

Minister of the Economy: home office should be voluntary

Altmaier rejected a legally enshrined right to home office on the following grounds: “We need less bureaucracy, not always new government guarantees. I am convinced that many companies offer more home offices on their own, but it does not fit everywhere, above all when direct contact with customers and employees is necessary. “

Minister of Labor Hubertus Heil (SPD) had proposed a right to a home office: “Anyone who wants and with whom the job permits should be able to work in the home office – even if the Corona pandemic is over again.” A complete changeover is conceivable, or home office for one or two days a week.

According to surveys, every third employee has been working in his or her home office during the Corona crisis. Before the crisis, it was twelve percent, according to the German Institute for Economic Research.