This is a very large increase, particularly for an economy that is growing at a rate of three percent. A few years ago, the government made decisions limiting the rate of year-over-year growth in expenditure, and the limitation for 2013 according to this law is growth of about 5 percent in expenditure. It will therefore be necessary to reduce planned expenses by 5 percent.
A more balanced and suitable supply of housing is needed. The new Dutch housing agenda is a promising example of the leading role our government should play on the Dutch housing market. Distinguished guests, Welcome to Amsterdam! The city with the highest house price rises in the Netherlands and, last year, also in the Eurozone.