Federal Council rejects changes to its benefits

Wednesday, 22 February 2023 at 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.

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