Prime Minister of Hesse Volker Bouffier (CDU) has the possible billions in state aid for the Lufthansa defended and warned against the takeover of the airline by foreign competitors. “It is right that we have to help Lufthansa. It must stay in Germany,” said Bouffier of the “Rheinische Post” (Friday). “We have to be careful that nobody secretly buys the Lufthansa shares and then puts pressure on the group. Competitors come from China, the United States and the Gulf States.”
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Germany needs an airline that is competitive on a global scale – with good economic structures and social obligations, Bouffier said. However, the group could not expect the state to give the money and not have a securing influence on fundamental questions such as bonuses. Politicians should stay out of business decisions. In his opinion, a state-rescued company should forego dividends “at least for a certain time”.
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Lufthansa is because of the consequences of Corona pandemic come under severe pressure and are currently negotiating with the federal government on state aid worth nine billion euros. In return, a state participation of around 25 percent and supervisory board mandates are under discussion. Lufthansa boss Carsten Spohr had warned against excessive government influence on the group.
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