Dutch lawmakers have debated a partial ban on wearing full-face veils in public places, including schools, hospitals and on public transport.
Interior minister Ronald Plasterk called the legislation "religion neutral", but accepted that the debate about people wearing burqas and niqabs in public had been central to the proposal.
The proposal was approved by the Dutch government at a cabinet sitting in The Hague last year, but was debated by lawmakers on Wednesday.
It will apply to all face coverings including ski-masks and helmets and will not apply on public streets.
Mr Plasterk said the legislation will not go as far as the complete bans implemented in countries such as France and Belgium. [The Independent] Read more
