Cabinet wants 25,000 fewer civil servants to save billions

The Dutch government plans to reduce the number of civil servants by 25,000, approximately 16% of the total. This is the first time a specific number has been mentioned. The exact distribution of job cuts across departments is still unclear, but exceptions will be made for police and defense. The Secretary of State, Van der Burg, emphasizes the need for simplification of tasks and the elimination of certain regulations to achieve this reduction. Additionally, he aims to decrease the number of advisory councils and evaluations, currently totaling around 178. A more detailed plan is expected within six months.