Minimum wages would destroy at least a part of these jobs, which are occupied primarily by people with few qualifications and in eastern Germany.

Politicians must decide: either they open up the low-wage sector and offer a new chance to the long-term unemployed and those with few qualifications, or they introduce a legal minimum wage. Both together won't work.

I do certainly see chances that a grand coalition can take on major reform projects and reform challenges.

Given the current miserable economic situation and with over four million unemployed, a strike is the last thing Germany needs.

The coalition agreement will not make enough of a contribution to support growth and increase employment.

There is no clear impulse for more growth and job creation and that is precisely what is needed.