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SummaryGovernment press conference at the International Press Centre.
Part 1: Matthias Gehler (SPD government spokesman) reports on today's cabinet meeting and the Prime Minister's report on the political situation. The items on the agenda include trade union negotiations, the state of the State Treaty, the local elections, the 2-plus-4 talks, the economic negotiations with the USSR, the regulation of school holidays, and the conversion of the state-owned combines into limited liability companies (GmbH) or joint stock companies (AG). In addition, Matthias Gehler comments on Erich Honecker's inpatient report and the associated personal protection. It also reports on the dismissal of the Directors-General and explains the question of a German election as a whole. A further topic is how to deal with the liabilities of companies to the state that have arisen.
Part 2: In the press conference a statement is made on the currency reform. It is stated that the former GDR should retain the necessary autonomy and sovereignty in the use of funds generated. Matthias Gehler (SPD government spokesman) hopes that the population will understand the situation and explains that the government must, however, keep an eye on the realities. Matthias Gehler also comments on rumours of increases in ministerial salaries. Matthias Gehler also answers questions regarding personal protection and the expert opinion to be prepared on Erich Honecker. He also commented on the possible detention conditions for Erich Honecker.
The parliamentary party leader Richard Schröder (SPD) explains that the SPD demands a rapid currency, economic and social reform and that this must be recorded in the state treaty. Richard Schröder also reported on the debate with Prime Minister Lothar de Maizière and the SPD Group. Richard Schröder explains that there is no coalition dispute. For the SPD, the protection of pensions, income, the rights of use and ownership of GDR citizens and the protection of tenants are in the foreground. This has also been laid down in the coalition agreements. These agreements must now prove themselves. Schroeder explains that the SPD has the task of formulating a government negotiation position. In addition, Richard Schroeder explains the negotiations on the State Treaty. According to Schroeder, the coalition is not in collapse. Finally, Schroeder answers questions regarding the negotiations on the State Treaty and the subsidy compensation of wages and pensions.
Part 3: The development of wages through subsidies and investments is discussed. The influence of the trade unions and the FDGB on wage tariffs.
