All eyes in the Netherlands are focused on the political capital The Hague today. Every year on the third Tuesday in September, known as Prince's Day, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands reads a speech outlining the government's plans for the coming year.

Each year, many of the government's plans are leaked to the press. And this year is no exception. The budget plans paint a bleak picture; the economic recession means that serious cuts will have to be made.

Pomp and circumstance
Prior to the Throne Speech, the Queen drives from Noordeinde Palace to the Ridderzaal (Knight’s Hall) in the parliament building in a Golden Carriage. She is escorted by a honorary cavalry escort. Every year, tens of thousands of people line the route. Traditionally, Prince’s Day involves much pomp and circumstance. Taking their cue from the queen, all women ministers and MPs wear the most extravagant hats.

Extra security
This year, additional security measures are in place as the result of a failed attack on the royal family on Queen’s Day last April. Eight people – including the perpetrator - were killed when a man drove his car at high speed through a crowd of spectators and crush barriers in an attempt to ram an open-top coach carrying the queen, Crown Prince Willem Alexander, his wife Princess Maxima and several other members of the royal family.