Amsterdam, Dec 16, (dpa/GNA) – The Dutch royal family, has again broken health regulations introduced to stem the spread of Covid-19, causing renewed outrage.
Last week, Crown Princess Amalia celebrated her 18th birthday with a large party, despite rules that cap the number of people allowed at gatherings at four.
The royal court confirmed corresponding media reports in The Hague on Thursday.
As infection numbers rise, putting hospitals under pressure, the Dutch government has introduced an evening curfew as well as the cap on gatherings.
Amalia’s party included some 100 guests, according to a report in De Telegraaf. The guests celebrated in two tents in the palace gardens.
However, the palace said there had only been “21 invitations.” All of the guests were vaccinated and were also asked to take additional tests, according to the report.
King Willem-Alexander acknowledged this was a misjudgement, Prime Minister Mark Rutte said. “The king has informed me that in hindsight it was not good to organize it that way.”
The royal family has flouted pandemic regulations several times. The family flew to their holiday home in Greece last year, despite the government’s urgent call on the public to stay at home.
The royal couple swiftly returned after widespread protest but the two princesses Amalia and Alexia remained on holiday. Anger rose, forcing the royal family to apologise in a televised address. The royals’ popularity sank to a record low at the time.
GNA