State-provided interest irks Dutch

While most people try to avoid paying taxes as best as they can, some Dutch companies have found they can earn more money by doing just the opposite.

Because the Dutch Treasury pays 5 per cent interest on any excess amount paid that it returns later - more than commercial banks offer - some firms gladly accept an estimate that is too high, Dutch Finance Minister Gerrit Zalm complains.

"If it turns out they need the money after all, they just submit a new estimate," Zalm said, adding this kind of "banking with the Government" needed to stop as quickly as possible.