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'Action now to avoid more painful measures'

News item | 16-09-2003

In the 2004 Budget Memorandum, finance minister Gerrit Zalm presents far-reaching measures aimed at averting the need for prolonged cutbacks. The Dutch economy is showing signs of long-term decline.

Experience in the 1970s and 1980s shows that failure to take prompt action necessitates a prolonged process of painful measures later. Demographic ageing is another issue that calls for vigilance. The government has therefore decided to strengthen the economic structure by increasing labour participation. In addition, government finances must remain healthy.

More information

• Press release ministry of Finance

  16-09-2003

• Press release on National Debt

  16-09-2003

• Press release on Corporate Governance

  16-09-2003