Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier loses backing from the economy.
The economic summit on Tuesday showed how deep the alienation is now.
Peter Altmaier's economic summit was a mammoth virtual event.
After all, the CDU minister had gathered 40 leading associations for a video switch on Tuesday.
But instead of the overdue opening perspectives, it stayed with small and small.
Altmaier promised that there would be a hardship rule for companies that have so far fallen through the cracks.
To this end, the associations and Altmaier want to develop recommendations for an opening strategy that will be introduced at the next federal-state summit in early March.
That's it
Many business representatives found it difficult to curb their displeasure with the lukewarm result.
The fact that Altmaier did not present his own step-by-step opening plan was purely a “delaying tactic”, complained about the president of the family business, Reinhold von Eben-Worlée.
And the head of the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW), Michael Frenzel, said quite bluntly that he would like a dialogue with the Chancellor as well.
“Ducking away completely” is not a solution, warned the former TUI boss.
Comment on Altmaier: Minister on probation
The fact that the economics minister is no longer sufficient as a contact person is a resounding slap in the face for Altmaier.
But Merkel's intimate has recently failed to cut a good figure on several key issues.
The corona aid, which was widely announced together with Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, continues to reach companies only slowly.
Altmaier also accepted the stricter controls at the borders with the Czech Republic and Tyrol without complaint.
There is a risk of production interruptions in industry due to the lack of supplies.
Even the surprising extension of the lockdown at the end of January was well supported by the Minister of Economic Affairs.
Of course, health protection is important.
But the minister responsible can be an advocate for the economy.
So far, most associations have been reluctant to openly criticize Altmaier.
But if the Minister of Economic Affairs cannot push through rapid opening steps at the next Corona summit in early March, it will be very uncomfortable for him.
For the CDU, which is firmly anchored in the economy, that would be a worrying prospect shortly before the federal election.
