Lorry and van drivers blocked the entrance to the parliamentary complex in The Hague on Saturday morning, in an anti-coronavirus measure protest inspired by the ‘freedom convoys’ in Canada and Paris.

Police have ordered the demonstrators to move to the nearby Malieveld – an open space where demonstrations in The Hague usually take place – but most have so far defied the order, broadcaster NOS said.

Some 200 vehicles are taking part in the protest, which has disrupted traffic and public transport, NOS said. The police have called on members of the public to avoid the city centre if possible.

According to the AD, a number of people in private cars have also joined the protest.

The protestors say they are demonstrating against the coronavirus rules, such as face masks and entry passes, as well as climate and farming regulation.

‘We want our freedom back,’ one woman told NOS. ‘Far too much of our freedom has been taken away in recent times.’

Potatoes

‘I have a lovely grandson and I am worried about his future if things go on as they are,’ said a man standing close to the pond bordering parliament. ‘That is why I am here.’

One trucker showed NOS the supplies in the back of his lorry, including sacks of potatoes, a fridge and a coffee machine. ‘We’ve got enough to last us a long time,’ the driver said.

On Sunday, another demonstration organised by anti-coronavirus rules groups will also take place in The Hague.