No legal obstacle to new ministry during Dutch government's term of office
In the media image: Alireza Parpaei on Unsplash
Anne Meuwese, Professor of Public Law & Governance of Artificial Intelligence, answered questions from listeners during an ‘EenVandaag’ broadcast on NPO Radio1. One question was about establishing a new ministry of digital affairs.
The question concerned the desire for a separate ministry of digital affairs and whether it is possible to establish a new ministry once the government has started its term of office. Meuwese replied, saying 'that's allowed, but won’t happen easily. But there’s no rule in the constitution or legislation that stands in the way.'
However, in order to make changes to the overall division of tasks and roles between the coalition parties – as decided on during the inaugural meeting following the cabinet formation – you would need a 'very good reason'. This is all the more so when it comes to the creation of a completely new ministry, and not merely the appointment of a minister without portfolio.