More on Geert Wilders and the Terrorist Threat

Sky News Online 15 April 2010
By Alex Rossi

Interesting warnings coming from Holland in regards to the threat of terrorism in the lead up to the country's parliamentary elections at the beginning of June. National Anti-Terrorism Co-ordinator, Erik Akerboom, reckons there is a greater chance of violence in the next few months because of the nature of the political debate at the moment in the Netherlands. Tough talking about Muslims is likely to dominate with Geert Wilders' Freedom Party - which is characterized by its anti-Islam policies - set to win more seats in parliament. Mr Akerboom says there is no direct threat but security for politicians is being increased just in case.

Geert Wilders insists the warning will not make him hold his tongue. He says; "I operate within every rule and every law. I strive for less Islam in the Netherlands both in parliament and in my election manifesto. That is a legitimate standpoint. The fact that there is a threat of violence as a result is very bad. It is bad for every party and for democracy. But it would be even worse if we did not discuss these matters because of the threat of violence. You have to be able to say what you believe or what you think (...)