Some firms have reached agreements to cut workers' pay below the level set in their contract, a practice that is illegal in Germany.

一些公司已达成一致意见，将工人的工资削减至低于合同规定的水平，这种做法在德国是违法的。

The prime minister demanded a public inquiry into bank practices.

首相要求对银行工作进行公开调查。