The Dutch House of Representatives is unusually allowing the caretaker cabinet to proceed with a wide range of policy initiatives, signaling a departure from the typical limitations imposed on governments that have already fallen. This decision reflects a desire among MPs to avoid stagnation on critical issues, particularly with upcoming elections on the horizon.
Normally, a caretaker cabinet is expected to maintain a low profile, focusing only on essential functions to prevent societal disruption. The House typically imposes strict boundaries, designating certain subjects as “controversial” and requiring them to be put on hold until a new government is formed. This is partly because the House lacks the power to dismiss a fallen cabinet, making it crucial to set clear limitations early on.
However, this time, MPs are showing a willingness to allow the caretaker cabinet to continue working on important dossiers. The House has indicated that work should continue on critical issues such as housing, asylum, agriculture, social affairs, public health, finance, foreign affairs, defense, infrastructure, and justice.
For example, the committee dealing with housing policy wants caretaker Minister of Housing Mona Keijzer to proceed with a law aimed at accelerating house construction. Similarly, the House wants the cabinet to continue with plans related to asylum, including measures proposed by the former Minister of Asylum Marjolein Faber. Caretaker Minister of Agriculture Femke Wiersma has also been given the green light to continue work on the nitrogen dossier.
A few subjects will be put on hold, including electoral system reform, amendments to the transgender law, and certain animal welfare issues.
D66 MP Anne-Marijke Podt emphasized the importance of preventing a standstill, even while disagreeing with the caretaker Minister of Agriculture’s policies. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among MPs about leaving major dossiers unresolved, especially with upcoming elections.
Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof has urged the House not to declare important subjects as controversial. Ministers are eager to continue their work. Caretaker Minister of Social Affairs Eddy van Hijum expressed his hope to complete ongoing projects, while BBB member Robert Tieman, the new Minister of Infrastructure, aims to do more than simply maintain the status quo.
The departure of the PVV from the coalition has transformed the cabinet into a minority government, lacking a majority in the House. The PVV has indicated that it will act as a strong opposition party. This new reality forces the cabinet to navigate changing majorities to advance its policies.
Despite the challenges, there may be opportunities for the cabinet to find support for its initiatives. The remaining coalition may be able to count on the PVV’s support on issues such as asylum policy and increasing the defense budget.
The opposition sees an opportunity to influence policy. The House is potentially increasing its own power by granting the caretaker cabinet more leeway, which could lead to successful collaboration.