Prime minister Mark Rutte told a VVD meeting in Zeist on Wednesday evening that his second cabinet had a ‘rotten start’, Nos television reports.

Rutte was referring to the row over the coalition’s plans to make health insurance premiums income dependent – a decision which was quickly reversed after widespread protest within and outside the VVD.

During the meeting, the prime minister faced further criticism from party members over economic reforms, Nos said. In particular, VVD voters were angry that investment in roads and the infrastructure were being cut and taxes increased.

He admitted tax increases are ‘not in the genes of a Liberal, but have to be done’. This is necessary to reach an important Liberal position – balanced government books, he said.