Extra protection for Dutch Queen

Security was beefed up for Dutch Queen Beatrix's attendance yesterday at a commemoration in Amsterdam for victims of war following an attack on the royal family last week, the city's mayor announced.

"Among other things, the distance between the Queen (and the public) was enlarged, leaving less space on the Dam" public square, where the commemoration was held for all citizens and soldiers fallen in conflicts and peacekeeping since World War II.

Police also searched members of the public.

Queen Beatrix, Crown Prince Willem-Alexander and his wife Maxima took part in yesterday's ceremony alongside Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende.

Last Thursday, the three royals and other members of their family watched in horror as a man targeting the open top bus in which they were travelling ploughed into Queen's Day festival goers, killing six people.

The driver died from head trauma in hospital hours after his car rammed into the foot of a monument, as details emerged of how he had lost his job and was about to lose his home.

He told police after the incident that he had been targeting the royal family.

Queen Beatrix expressed her shock at the incident, as commentators started speculating about its impact on royal security and accessibility.