Chapter 3: The States General

The position occupied by Parliament within the Dutch system of government is determined not only by constitutional provisions but also, to a significant extent, by unwritten rules. Consequently, the provisions regarding the States General included in this chapter leave room for the development of unwritten law within our parliamentary system. The chapter on the States General is divided into two sections: Organization and Composition, and Working Methods. Most provisions apply to both the House of Representatives and the Senate. However, the provisions differ regarding the composition of the two Houses.