Wednesday, April 7th, 2021
Laschet gets support
Merkel for a short uniform lockdown
In view of the current infection situation, the federal government is calling for a short, uniform lockdown. In this way, Chancellor Merkel indirectly supports the idea of a “bridge lockdown” by CDU boss Laschet. It looks different with an early Prime Minister’s Conference.
The federal government is in favor of another clear shutdown of public life in Germany and indirectly supports the idea of a “bridge lockdown” by CDU leader Armin Laschet. When asked how Chancellor Angela Merkel assesses Laschet’s proposal, the deputy government spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer said in Berlin that there is currently no good database on new corona infections, but the number of intensive care beds used speaks a very clear language. “That is why every demand for a short, uniform lockdown is correct. A common national approach would also be important here.”
Demmer added: “The variety of the rules that have been adopted does not contribute to security and acceptance at the moment.” For early consultations between the Prime Minister and the Federal Chancellor, as also proposed by Laschet, according to her words, there is “obviously no majority” at the moment. The Chancellor’s next consultations with the country leaders are planned for Monday.
Faced with much criticism of his push for a “bridge lockdown”, Laschet had defended the proposal. “I just invite everyone else to say what ideas they have,” said the CDU chairman when visiting a drive-in vaccination station in Schwelm. His idea is “on the table”. “I notice, however, that the reaction to this proposal from the SPD colleagues – with whom I usually get along well – is unfortunately only a rejection,” said Laschet, referring to the prime ministers of the SPD.
He maintains that fighting pandemics is not a party-political issue, but a joint task. “We need a great, joint, national effort, then we can do it,” said Laschet. For “nationwide answers” a meeting of the Prime Ministers with Chancellor Angela Merkel this week would have been good in his opinion. If this “is not wanted, then we just have to wait until Monday”. The next federal-state round on corona policy has been planned for a long time for this day.
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