Because the unions are demanding 10.5 percent more wages for the public sector, economists are warning of an inflationary spiral. But is it really coming? And will employees therefore hold back?
Of
Alexander Hageluken
After the bang in the public sector, the largest industrial sector is also ready to fight in the wage round. “The workers can’t cope with the situation,” complains IG Metall boss Jörg Hofmann. “We feel extreme pressure to get a good result.” While the metalworkers want eight percent more wages, the unions for the public sector demanded even 10.5 percent this week. Economists criticize this – and warn that it could drive up inflation.