The problem is east germany, was still German, with all the traits of being known for hard work inherent with that national identity.

Of course, unification of the two Germanies was allowed to proceed for econmic reasons. Trade unions in the new Germany would be weakened, and wages would stop rising, or indeed decline, due to over-supply of potential employees as a result of the unification. Great for the rich, but bad for the common man. Also great for Germany's exports, which thereby could become more competitively priced.