THE HAGUE - There is already sufficient consultation between the governments of the countries of the Kingdom, says Undersecretary Raymond Knops of Kingdom Relations. That is why he advised against the motion of Member of Parliament Jorien Woute (D66) to hold a 'Kingdom deliberation' at government level.
The deliberations should address common challenges in the areas of climate change, economic recovery, security, the democratic rule of law and human rights. “A clear Kingdom-wide vision is lacking and can contribute to a better relationship and a more effective approach to challenges,” said Wuite in her motion co-signed by several parties.
Knops said he did not see the need for a Kingdom council. Wuite's plea to hold it 'because of the symbolic meaning' in the Catshuis (Official residence of the Dutch Prime Minister) was brushed aside by the undersecretary with the words "that there is no time for symbolism." He contradicted the idea that the mutual relations would not be good. "Sometimes there are tensions, but I maintain good relations."