Over half the Dutch would be prepared to use an app to trace coronavirus infections if it met proper guarantees on privacy and security, the AD reported on Thursday.

The figures come from a representative poll of 900 Dutch people which was carried out by researchers at Erasmus University in Rotterdam.

Young adults are the most likely to agree to use an app which would use bluetooth technology to alert them if they have been close to a coronavirus patient, the researchers said. Others could be swayed to install the app if its use meant they could join larger groups, such as at a birthday party.

60% coverage

The cabinet is currently looking into developing its own app to track and trace coronavirus patients after a weekend brainstorming session failed to find a candidate which met its requirements.

To be successful, an app would need to be used by around 60% of the population and the Erasmus study shows this level of coverage could be reached, the AD said.

Ministers have said an app could have a key role in lifting the social distancing restrictions.