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Peter Altmaier
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Tobias SCHWARZ / AFP
Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier has announced a further extension of economic aid to stressed industries.
"We are monitoring developments very closely and, as Minister of Economic Affairs, I will not hesitate if the need arises to get this aid extended."
A few weeks ago, the government agreed to extend the central aid instrument, Bridging Aid III, until the end of September 2021.
Now Altmaier does not rule out even longer support.
Of course, he would need the approval of his ministerial colleagues for an extension, said the minister.
"But I am very optimistic that we will be able to provide this help to those who need help in the next few months."
Altmaier referred to the difficult situation of the cultural and creative industries in view of closings.
Parts of the industry have seen a drop in sales.
The economy is picking up again.
But certain industries still need help.
The economic policy spokesman for the FDP parliamentary group is skeptical.
"After failing to enforce his call in June to extend the bridging aid until the end of the year, Peter Altmaier shines again in his top discipline of big announcements," says Reinhard Houben.
The many companies that were in the red during the pandemic-related closings were not helped by declarations of intent from the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
They need planning security that they will still be supported after the Bundestag election campaign.
ssu / dpa