Canada and the World Backgrounder, December 1st, 2003
Capital: Amsterdam
Head of State: Queen Beatrix (since April 1980) Inherited title and mostly ceremonial position
Head of Government: Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende (since May 2003) Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or leader of a majority coalition is usually appointed prime minister by the monarch
In the Netherlands there is a Council of State composed of the monarch, heir apparent, and councillors that provides advice to the prime minister on legislative and administrative policy
Parliament: There are two houses in the States General (parliament). ...
HighBeam Research, Free Preview: 'Netherlands.'... Full Membership required for unlimited access. Free 7-day trial.
Subscribers: HighBeam content is only available to HighBeam subscribers. Click the link above for more information.
