Good point Robert.HM is not only our Head of State but a member of the government.She stands above the parties.She is advised by the leaders of all parties and has a unique insight in these parties.It was not just once,but on several occasions,HM was advised the one,but decided the other,as she saw her decision in what would be in the best interest of the Country,as were party leaders are (for a large part-) keen on what is of the best interest of the party,she has the "Eagle's view".What you refered to happened little over 10 years ago,as she preferred an allience between socialists and liberals,keeping the conservatives at arms lenght,and so there was the government with PM Wim Kok,twice,untill 2002.That year was absurd and saw a country in turmoil after the murder of Pim Fortuyn,and his party gaining popularity,
sky-rocketing.That party (LPF)won the elections but could only form a government in a allience.That happened,
only to "blow-up"a few months later,on the very day of the funeral of The Queens husband,Prince Claus!
People were just appalled how that plebs never gave a second of thought to HM at this sad time.HM wasn't thrilled.At All.
That party was an embarresment while fortuyn was alive but became an even bigger nuisance after the elections.Now,3 years after all that,only some rifraf is left,but the party almost ceases to exist.
And this is just one of the parties HM has to deal with,and are invited to advice her.What a job.
There are some,ofcourse,who,by HM acting as she does,say she has to much power,some so-called"critical"reporters,bring up the subject time after time,but the Dutch wouldn't want any change in HM involvement in forming governments.And looking at the political turmoil in the light of recent events,87% is glad she is who she is and does what she does,and has that "guiding hand".
Once,asked about the "complaint" that she had to much power,she simply referred to the Constitution and Parliament,saying they could alter that if they wished,it was not upto her to decide in that matter.She just plays it by the rules,and expects others to do likewise.HM has the right to be informed and advised,and vice versa,and has made good use of it.
But it is a fact,yes,that since the 1990's HM gained more stature in government matters as subsequent PM's gave her that extra space.She never takes advantage of that,but works within the lines/borders.It works,and very good too,so why repear something that isn't broke?
Politics in the Netherlands,it's not just a two party system here you see,there are almost 20 and most have a seat or several in Parliament,just to prevend mischief I'm only too glad HM has a keen eye on the lads and gals.Several times a year members of Parliament are invited to come and see her at the Palace,MP's call that going to see the Boss,with their partners,same sex or not.Grouped about 15 to 20 at a time,you better make sure you've done your homework,as she has.But these meetings are quite frank and open between them,almost informal.
