Federal Council rejects changes to its benefits

Wednesday, 22 February 2023 06:30

The Federal Council has rejected a motion to re-examine the pay and benefits ministers and ex-ministers receive.

Each minister is paid CHF 457,000 francs and is entitled to a further CHF 30,000 in expenses.

In addition, they get a use of a limousine, first class train travel and access to government owned aircraft.

Retired federal councillors are paid half the salary for the rest of their lives.

National parliamentarian Thomas Burgherr from the Swiss People’s Party believes the benefits should be looked at again.

But the government points out ministers have to be contactable all the time and have a heavy responsibility – and the current package is appropriate.

More from Bitesize News

Zelensky says he should meet Putin in Geneva

Ukrainian president Volodmyr Zelensky says the only way to end the war in his country is for his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin to meet him directly - and he’s suggesting Putin should travel to Geneva. The current peace talks underway in Geneva are faltering.
Top level talks in Geneva

The Ukrainian negotiations are not the only high level talks underway in Geneva.
Russia propaganda attempts to sway SRG SSR vote

The Russian propaganda TV channel, Russia Today, has weighed in on the debate if the fee paid to the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation should be cut to CHF 200.
Snow triggers panic buying in Valais

Heavy snowfall and a high avalanche risk have brought parts of Valais to a standstill.
Fears of new night flights from Geneva

Debate is flaring ahead of the revision of the Federal Aviation Act.
Switzerland could buy European version of Patriot missiles

Switzerland was planning to buy Patriot missiles from the United States - but with relations with the US under scrutiny and the fuss of the purchase of US made fighter jets - the Confederation may opt for a new European model.