Dutch government to extend evening lockdown into the New Year

Sources have revealed that, following the coronavirus meeting in The Hague on Sunday, the Dutch government has decided to extend the so-called evening lockdown over the Christmas period into the New Year.

Evening lockdown to stay in place over Christmas

The latest advice from the Outbreak Management Team (OMT) called for the current set of coronavirus restrictions to remain in place throughout the Christmas period. While the experts said no stricter measures were necessary, they felt the existing rules about household guests should remain in effect throughout the holidays in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.

At a meeting at Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s official residence on December 12, cabinet ministers and health experts discussed the upcoming coronavirus press conference and the measures for the holidays. While various options appeared to be on the table, new information has revealed Rutte and Health Minister Hugo de Jonge will announce an extension of the current lockdown. 

Next coronavirus press conference on Tuesday

The press conference is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, December 14, a few days before the current rules are set to lift on December 19. The 25 Dutch mayors that make up the Security Council are meeting on Monday to discuss the national restrictions with Justice Minister Ferd Grapperhaus.

If the rumours are true, it means that the enforced closing time of 5pm for the catering, retail, and cultural industries will remain in place throughout December. It had been suggested certain rules may be amended for the Christmas holidays, but sources say the rule outlining a maximum of four household guests per day will stay in place for the entirety of the festive season.