Press
The Netherlands is getting a new prime minister: Dick Schoof was once head of the secret service, now he is to lead the government.
The Hague – The former head of the secret service and the anti-terrorism agency, Dick Schoof (67), is to become the new head of government of the Netherlands. This was announced by the four future coalition parties on Tuesday in The Hague. Schoof, who is not affiliated with any party, is currently the highest official in the Ministry of Justice. He is to lead the most right-wing government in the country’s history and succeed the current Prime Minister Mark Rutte, the NATO Secretary General shall be.
Right-wing populist Geert Wilders spoke of a good choice. “He stands above the parties and has our trust.” He also has broad experience.
Right-wing government in the Netherlands is in place – without Wilders as prime minister
Around six months ago, the Dutch elected a new parliament. The Party for Freedom (PVV) of the radical right-wing populist Geert Wilders surprisingly the strongest force with 37 seats He needed at least two partners to achieve a stable majority. After arduous negotiations, Wilders agreed on a coalition with the right-liberal VVD of the previous Prime Minister Rutte, the right-wing conservative NSC and the right-wing populist farmers’ party BBB.
To make the coalition possible, Wilders renounced the office of head of government and some of his most controversial demands, such as the ban on mosques. Half of the cabinet is to consist of non-professional politicians.
Schoof has not been active in politics until now, but was a member of the Social Democratic Party until a few years ago. He is considered an expert on security and migration – two key issues for the right-wing coalition partners. Schoof headed the AIVD intelligence and security service, was coordinator in the fight against terrorism and also director of the immigration authority.
New Dutch government wants to drastically restrict immigration
It will probably take a few more weeks until the entire cabinet is in place. It is expected that the king will be able to swear in the new government in about four weeks.
The Right-wing populist Wilders had presented the coalition agreement announced a radical change of course for the Netherlands on 16 May. The leader of the anti-Islam party promised “The strictest asylum policy ever”and a drastic restriction on immigration. The plans also include relaxing environmental regulations for farmers and cutting subsidies for sustainable energy. (lrg/dpa)
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