Liberals take the Netherlands! (Christchurch Liberal Democrats)

Christchurch Liberal Democrats <judysheppeard@qmail.com>

Liberals take the Netherlands!

June 10, 2010 12:00 AM
Originally published by Sir Graham Watson MEP

Graham Watson MEP has congratulated Dutch Liberal parties on the outstanding election results in the Netherlands.

Mark Rutte's People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) topped the poll taking 31 seats, whilst Democrats 66 (D66) led by Alexander Pechtold tripled their number of seats, securing 10.

Watson said;

"This is a fantastic result for both Dutch Liberal parties.

"It should also bring another Liberal Democrat Prime Minister to the European table. With ever more national governments, European Commissioners and MEPs joining the Liberal family, our influence across Europe is steadily growing.

"By working together, we can help to create a freer, fairer and more prosperous Europe."

The MEP also pointed out the different voting systems in the UK and the Netherlands. He said;

"The Liberal victory in the Netherlands is made even sweeter by the fact that it was achieved through a fair voting system. Dutch voters enjoy a far greater say than their British counterparts on polling day and turned out in higher numbers as a result.

"I look forward to the day when British voters are able to secure a fairer electoral system through a referendum on the Alternative Vote."