Coalition talks continue, Omtzigt and Wilders “clear the air”

Talks on forming a new coalition government continue on Thursday, with scout Ronald Plasterk holding joint talks with VVD leader Dilan Yesilgöz and Pieter Omtzigt of the NSC.

Both have stated they have fundamental objections to forming a new cabinet with the far right PVV, although there may now be some signs of movement on their entrenched positions.

Omtzigt had talks with Plasterk and Geert Wilders on Wednesday, after which the far right party leader said the “air had been relatively cleared”. Omtzigt told reporters afterward that there “is every reason to have a follow up meeting tomorrow”.

Plasterk is due to report back on his findings to parliament next week.

Meanwhile, three people have come forward to apply for the job of parliamentary chairman, who is responsible for ensuring that debates run smoothly and that MPs stick to the rules.

VVD MP Roelien Kamminga, Tom van de Lee from the GroenLinks/PvdA alliance
and the PVV’s Martin Bosma, who is currently deputy chairman and has twice before tried for the job, have all made their interest in the position known.

The vote, which is a secret ballot, will take place on December 14.