Dutch Eurosceptics left fuming after parliament REJECTS bid for their own EU Referendum
DUTCH politicians have rejected proposals to join Britain in carrying out a European Union (EU) referendum - despite its citizens wanting one.
The motion for a 'Nexit' vote was quickly shut down after opposition leader Geert Wilders, of the Party for Freedom (PVV), put it forward.
Mr Wilders, said: "I say this to everyone: the Dutch deserve a referendum as well.
"The Dutch should also be able to rule in favour or against the departure of the Netherlands from the European Union and the restoration of our national sovereignty and independence."
However, only 14 out of 150 MPs supported the motion - all 12 members of the PVV and two who had separated themselves from the party.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte had already made his feelings known about a referendum voting on the Netherlands leaving the EU.
Reacting to Britons voting for Brexit last week, Mr Rutte said: "That would have major consequences for the Netherlands, our stability and the recovery of our prosperity.
"I am absolutely against it. It would not be in the Dutch interest."
A poll carried out by Dutch news programme Een Vandaag two days after Britain's EU Referendum vote, revealed 48% of Dutch people were in favour of leaving the EU, whereas 45% opposed the idea.
In the Netherlands, citizens can only apply for an advisory referendum - which is what Britain's is.
A Dutch referendum can only deal with treaties or laws already adopted but which have not yet come into force.
Two months ago a majority of Dutch people voted against the EU agreement with Ukraine to establish political and economic ties.
Mr Wilders has not been put off by the majority vote.
He added: "My proposal for a Nexit referendum was rejected.
"But the Dutch get a second chance on March 15, 2017, the day of our next general elections."
