CSU leader Markus Söder has called for an additional hour of work per week in an ARD broadcast to boost Germany's economic growth. He advocates for quick reforms despite upcoming state elections. Further measures include abolishing telephone sick notes and phasing out retirement at 63.
In the ARD program 'Bericht aus Berlin,' Bavarian Minister President and CSU leader Markus Söder addressed Germany's economic challenges. He views an increase in working hours as a direct solution to the growth problem.
"One hour of extra work per week would bring us enormous economic growth and is really not too much to ask," Söder said. This demand is part of a package of reforms he wants to implement in the coalition.
Additionally, Söder supports Chancellor Friedrich Merz's (CDU) call to abolish telephone sick notes. He also advocates for a gradual dismantling of the so-called retirement at 63, the deduction-free early retirement for long-term insured individuals.
Söder emphasized that these reforms must be implemented as quickly as possible. They must not be delayed due to the upcoming state elections. The debate on working hours and social reforms is intensifying, while other politicians like NRW Labor Minister Laumann defend Germans as not lazy.
