Dutch cabinet wants curfew, but needs approval of House
‘Nobody wants the curfew’, said Rutte, but the cabinet feels it is a necessary measure to curb the spread of the highly contagious British mutation of the virus, known as B117. If a majority of the House agrees with the curfew, it will be in effect from January 23 until February 9.
The curfew would mean people aren’t allowed outside from 8.30 p.m. until 4.30 a.m. Those who do leave their house risk a 95 euro fine.
Exceptions will be made for those who need to go to work and informal carers. It will also still be allowed to walk your dog. If you go out during curfew, you’ll need a signed declaration or an employer’s statement. Supermarkets will have to close earlier, too.
One visitor per day
Other measures include a new maximum of one visitor at home per day instead of two and, starting this Monday, a maximum of fifty people at weddings and funerals.
Rutte also announced a passenger flight ban for seventeen countries starting this Saturday, including the UK, South Africa and all of South America. This restriction will be in place until the cabinet has made new legislation for a mandatory quarantine for incoming travellers.
Education
There are no new measures for higher education. Universities can continue to offer on-site exams and practical training.