During the debate, the various factions expressly wanted to hear from the Prime Minister if he takes the criticisms seriously. And why he doesn’t resign. ‘So why don’t you resign?’, Rutte repeated and then gave the answer himself: ‘I want to be part of the way forward to implement these things. This is my absolute ambition.’
Insufficient difference
The prime minister did not think resigning was an option but regretted it again and acknowledged that he was “not able to make enough of a difference”. He says he agrees with the conclusion of the parliamentary commission of inquiry and that the whole issue has deeply affected him. And for those who think he’ll put it in cold shoes: “We all write differently, I’m not one to show tears right away.” Rutte vowed to want the best for the Netherlands and to do his job 24 hours a day.
The coalition parties VVD, D66, CDA and ChristenUnie were satisfied with the apology. The opposition parties did not, they supported a vote of no confidence. The PSC again disagreed.
“I’m not one to cry easily”
Earlier in the evening, Mining State Secretary Hans Vijlbrief explained his approach so that Groningen residents can be helped faster and less complicated. The cabinet may want to turn off the gas tap this year and release extra cash for those affected. They can present up to 60,000 euros in damages without proof. Q66 Member of Parliament Faissal Boulakjar wanted a firm commitment from Rutte on this, and there will be a vote on the parliamentary motions on Tuesday.
Listen to Studio Den Haag’s podcast on the debate here