Dutch MPs reject ban on political parties

A majority in parliament has rejected a proposal to ban political parties whose purpose is to destroy the legal system or whose manifestos run counter to it. The proposal, put forward by the Christian Democrats, suggested banning parties such as those wishing to introduce Sharia law or to legalise paedophilia.

During an emergency debate, the majority of parties said that there must be room in a democracy for the discussion of ideas deviating from the norm. The debate was called after Justice Minister Piet Hein Donner said that it should be possible to introduce Islamic law if two-thirds of the electorate backed the move. Despite criticism of his comments, Mr Donner survived a motion of no-confidence.

Source: Radio Netherlands, 15 September 2006