After the successful vote to raise Swiss state pensions by one twelfth (a 13th month payment), the question of how to fund the extra CHF 4.2 billion a year required has been preoccupying many in Bern. This week, a parliamentary commission voted 13 versus 12 to postpone the question and to tackle it later during planned discussions aimed at reforming the pension system more generally, reported SRF.
© Hai Huy Ton That | Dreamstime.comMany behind the vote argued a 13th month pension payment could easily be funded. However, those trying to balance the books in Bern are scratching their heads. Switzerland’s federal budget is in the red and forecast to stay there for several years without new spending cuts or tax increases. In addition, despite current receipts exceeding outgoings,
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