(de-news.net) – The Minimum Wage Commission has emphasized its independence following a debate between the CDU/CSU and the SPD over a higher minimum wage. As Christiane Schönefeld, chair of the commission, explained, its members are not subject to any instructions in the course of their work. The decision on the minimum wage for 2026 and 2027 will be made at the end of June. The statutory criteria, as enshrined in the rules of procedure, will be applied.

In the coalition agreement, the CDU/CSU and the SPD had, in principle, supported a minimum wage of 15 euros for the coming year. However, the CDU/CSU emphasizes that the Minimum Wage Commission is ultimately responsible for taking a decision. The SPD, on the other hand, assumes that the minimum wage for 2026 should be set at the level mentioned in the coalition agreement.