PRESS STATEMENT COVID-19: Jobs and incomes must be safeguarded

Jörg Hofmann: “If supply chains break down, that is first and foremost a business risk. However, we see the need for swift political action to prevent this from turning into a recession. Three points are central to this: employment and income must be secured. Where necessary, short-time work is an appropriate measure, provided employers supplement employees’ wages to ensure their net pay remains intact. In addition, access to short-time work must be made easier in the short term. Financing for bridge loans to cover production and sales shortfalls must be secured. To this end, banks must be held accountable, but the framework conditions for bank financing must also be adjusted. Now is the time to drive forward socio-ecological transformation and stimulate domestic demand through investments in infrastructure, the ecological transition, and the promotion of innovation. Even though there is currently no reason to panic, policymakers should be prepared to take appropriate measures at short notice. I also expect these decisions from the coalition committee.”

Further information and press photos of Jörg Hofmann