The diplomatic service should be drastically reformed, according to an interim report drawn up for foreign affairs minister Frans Timmermans.

The commission, led by former procurator general Arthur Docters van Leeuwen, says an academy for diplomats should be set up and several embassies should be closed.

In addition, the service needs modernising because the clear global power blocks have been joined by a virtual network in which non-governmental organisations, companies and media are active.

The foreign ministry is currently looking for €40m extra in savings, on top of the €60m demanded by the previous government.