Den Uyl, Joop (1919-1987)

Dutch politician, prime minister 1973-77. His ministry was beset with difficulties, notably the Arab oil embargo, caused by his government's support for Israel during the Yom Kippur War. He imposed economy measures to save energy. His Socialist Party (PvdA) was returned with an increased number of seats in the 1977 general election, but its coalition with the Christian Democrats collapsed. He was leader of the opposition 1977-86.

Den Uyl first achieved political prominence as a member of the Amsterdam city council, to which he was elected as a candidate for the PvdA. He was appointed minister for economic affairs in 1965, and became leader of the opposition 1967-73.