For this, the parties needed several evenings, which were also criss-crossed by irritation and discussions about other important topics such as nitrogen and asylum. But now there is white smoke.
“We think we are major challenges, a well-balanced package,” Minister Kaag (Finance) summarizes the negotiations. According to Prime Minister Rutte, negotiations were continued until after 5 o’clock on Tuesday night because it is ‘really very complex’.
The negotiators are not yet ready to say what the purchasing power package will look like. Only on Budget Day will the cabinet announce the budget, which also includes the purchasing power measures, for next year. “We can’t say anything now, it will all become visible on Prinsjesdag,” says Rutte.
It is clear that the deal will consist of two parts: a temporary package to cushion the pain of the energy bill next year and a structural package that should ensure that work becomes more rewarding.