The analysis of party manifestos’ strengths and weaknesses by the government’s bureau for economic policy analysis (CPB) is a traditional part of the Dutch general election campaign.

Today the bureau presents its findings for the sixth time, having examined the spending plans of eight political parties. CPB director Coen Teulings told reporters that proposals to cut civil service bureaucracy – included in all eight manifestos – would result in cuts in public services.
Parties across the political spectrum have pledged to increase civil service efficiency. The ruling Christian Democrats (CDA) estimate their plans will save up to €1.5 bn over four years.
The CPB concludes that the Liberals (VVD) and Social Democrats (D66) have the best ideas to boost economic growth, while the CDA is considered too generous in its healthcare calculations.
And while nearly all the parties pledge to boost spending power, GreenLeft and the Socialist Party will do the most to put more money in people’s pockets, the bureau says.
None of the parties came close to dealing with the likely cost of the aging population, says Teulings.