Extension of lockdown supported by Southern authorities

Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder has defended the extension of the lockdown in Germany until January 10th, emphasizing the importance of implementing measures to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In a series of comments, Söder highlighted his concerns about the current situation, stating that the incidence numbers in Germany are too high and the downward trend hoped for has not yet occurred. He also expressed his view that the measures in Germany are milder than elsewhere, but more needs to be done.

Looking ahead to January, Söder anticipates a somewhat less, but more broadly based aid for more branches than currently provided. However, he did not mention any specific industries or sectors that will be targeted in the aid. He also requested the federal government to expedite the procedure for the aid in November and December, as some payments are only made in January, and considers some payments being made in January as too late.

Söder's comments suggest that the aid in January will be more comprehensive than the 75 percent turnover aid currently available. He also mentioned that there will be "December aid" in Germany, which includes aid for ski lifts, to minimize economic damage.

Regarding the closure of German ski slopes, Söder asked for patience and will take another look at the situation. He mentioned that the 75 percent turnover aid, currently available in November and December, cannot be sustained forever.

Söder also emphasized the importance of implementing measures in hotspots and stated that if the incidence numbers are very low in a region, discussions about reopening can be had again. He considers the decision to reduce the holiday risk by closing ski slopes in Austria to be good and important.

Concerning New Year's Eve, Söder thinks that the risk is not the challenging part. He did not specify the details of the aid that will be provided in January.

It is important to note that the Chancellor of Germany who provided financial aid to companies affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2021 was Angela Merkel, as she was the Federal Chancellor at that time. The position of Ministerpräsident (Minister President) refers to heads of German federal states, not the federal government. Markus Söder was Ministerpräsident of Bavaria, but the COVID-19 financial aid at the federal level was coordinated by the federal government under Chancellor Merkel in early 2021.