Pro MP Abdi and CDA MP Straatman have proposed overhauling the traffic-fine system. They want higher fines for serious offences such as heavy speeding, drink-driving and using a phone while driving, along with better enforcement and a personal approach for repeat offenders.

They also want to reduce surcharges for unpaid fines, expand payment arrangements and allow fines to be waived for people who cannot pay. The proposal followed criticism of the cabinet’s plan to raise traffic fines by 2.7% next year, including bringing the fine for running a red light to €330. The MPs said the government was using fines as a source of revenue; abandoning the increase would cost the treasury €46 million. The House of Representatives had already asked the cabinet to withdraw the plan, while the Central Judicial Collection Agency also criticized the level of traffic fines.