Chamber in starting blocks for debate on cabinet fall

Photo: ANP / Robin van Lonkhuijsen

This morning, the Lower House is completely dominated by the fall of the cabinet. The tension is palpable in the Binnenhof, where the political stage is prepared for a vigorous debate. Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof kicks off at 10:15 with a short statement.

After Geert Wilders withdrew his PVV, and all PVV ministers from the current cabinet yesterday morning, Schoof is expected to call for political responsibility, in the hope that important dossiers, such as nitrogen and defense, will not come to a complete standstill. But there is a chance that his message will be snowed under by political tensions.

Where coalition partners normally protect each other, this time that is probably a thing of the past. The four former leaders of PVV, VVD, NSC and BBB are now on their own. Geert Wilders, Dilan Yesilgöz, Nicolien van Vroonhoven and Caroline van der Plas can expect strong criticism during the debate, not only from the opposition, but perhaps also from each other.

The reason for the cabinet crisis lies with PVV leader Geert Wilders. He pulled the plug on the coalition yesterday, because his plans for additional asylum measures did not receive support. That went down badly with his colleagues, who spoke of a "reckless" and "irresponsible" decision. Caretaker Prime Minister Schoof also showed that he no longer sees any benefit in further cooperation if there is no willingness to negotiate.

The political atmosphere in The Hague is anything but relaxed. Meanwhile, the campaign machine is already running at full speed in the background. Because this morning there is also talk about when the Netherlands will be allowed to vote again. Today's debate marks a turning point in an already turbulent political period. Whoever gains the voter's trust will start scoring points today.