Tuesday or Wednesday? Coalition deal deadlines come and go

The three parties involved in talks on forming a new coalition government broke off their negotiations shortly before midnight on Monday and are set to pick up again on Tuesday.


Most commentators now expect a draft agreement will be presented to MPs later on Tuesday or on Wednesday.
The right-wing Liberals VVD, the Christian Democrats and anti-Islam PVV have been in talks since August 5. They are working on two agreements. One is the basis for the formation of a minority government between the CDA and VVD. The other covers areas where the PVV will agree to support the government, or not cause it to collapse.
Monday’s talks were suspended for a time so the three party leaders could consult with their own advisors.
Draft deal
On Monday, CDA and VVD sources told the NRC they expect to be able to present MPs with a draft coalition agreement on Tuesday.
Trouw also agrees with a Tuesday deadline, saying the deal could be made public by Thursday.
But sources within the PVV were less enthusiastic and expect it will be next week before the agreement can be finalised, the NRC says.
Arnhem
The Telegraaf says the draft deal will be given to MPs on Wednesday, clearing the way for the CDA to hold its ratification congress in Arnhem on Saturday.
The Volkskrant also opts for Wednesday, saying the three-party talks on cutting social security and healthcare spending are still proving tricky.
PVV leader Geert Wilders is due to appear in court on Monday to face charges of inciting hatred and racial discrimination against Muslims and Moroccans

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