German Social Democratic Party’s North Rhine-Westphalia state chair, Achim Post, predicts a significant increase in the minimum wage.
According to Post, the minimum wage will likely be set at 15 euros per hour, as it is aligned with the median income. In an interview with the Rheinische Post, he emphasized the importance of the minimum wage commission’s decision being supported by the entire group, not just a single party.
Post is not in favor of setting the minimum wage as a political decision, as this can lead to a bidding war before elections. He believes it is more constructive to have the commission make a decision based on objective criteria. The last increase of 41 cents, he said, was disappointing and he is glad a larger step is now being taken. Post also rejected the idea of exceptions for harvest helpers, stating that the minimum wage should not become a “Swiss cheese” with numerous exceptions.