Once the perogative of Don Quixote, it is now the pastime of Dutch politicians. Especially when Islam is the subject of discussion. In an interview with Vrij Nederland today justice minister Piet Hein Donner says that Sharia law could be introduced in the Netherlands if there was a two-thirds majority in favour. Because that is how democracy works, said the deeply religious minister.

The magazine ink had barely dried before politicians and commentators charged with their lances at the statement. Donner was accused of ‘dangerous thinking’, making ‘serious errors’ and ignoring his own Christian Democratic party line, which is to undemocratically ban such a movement should it ever appear in the Netherlands.
Donner should take a hard line against Islamic fundamentalism. Imams should be forced to shake hands with Dutch women. The whole mad list of Islamic practices which make Muslims incompatible with Dutch society were trundled out by the opinion leaders.
And so it goes on. Hot headedness instead of common sense. Fear instead facts. From the fierceness of reactions one might presume that Sharia law was about to be introduced instead of an innocuous piece of constitutional logic. Every politician in Holland knows that Sharia law has no chance here. And if ever did get in, America would intervene.