MPs in the Netherlands have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a ban on wearing face-covering Islamic veils in some public places, including schools, hospitals, government buildings and on public transport.
The Independent reports that the rule – which will outlaw all face coverings including ski-masks and helmets – was approved by 132 members of the 150-seat house.
It will now go before the Senate, where it must be approved before becoming law.
Under the law, the burqa could still be worn on the streets. But an outright ban is one of the central demands of the anti-Islam opposition Freedom Party, which is leading in polls ahead of parliamentary elections in March.
“Face-covering clothing will in future not be accepted in education and healthcare institutions, government buildings and on public transport,” the government said in a statement last year after the cabinet backed Interior Minister Ronald Plasterk’s bill.
It said it had “tried to find a balance between people’s freedom to wear the clothes they want and the importance of mutual and recognisable communication.”
The ban only applies “in specific situations where it is essential for people to be seen” or for security reasons, Prime Minister Mark Rutte told journalists at the time.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest news and updates from around the Muslim world!
“The bill does not have any religious background,” he added.
Those caught flouting the ban can be fined up to 405 euros (£343).
