Blair prepares to battle for EU yes vote
Tony Blair returns from Brussels today after the wording of the landmark European Union constitution was agreed by the 25 member states.
After defending his red line issues on tax and foreign policy, the Prime Minister is now turning his attentions to the challenge of convincing the British people to back the agreement in a referendum.
Speaking to reporters in the Belgian capital last night, Mr Blair said he was confident of securing a yes vote if people “listen to what is actually in the treaty”.
In the weeks leading up to the summit meeting, the PM had been critical of the euro sceptic lobby for muddying the waters ahead of a public vote.
“We have found common cause and common allies in ensuring Europe remains a Europe of nation states,” Mr Blair said.
Conservative leader, Michael Howard, remains opposed to the constitution, fearing that it will lead to the creation of a European super state.
His foreign affairs spokesman, Michael Ancram, told the Reuters news agency that the agreement would see more power going to Europe.
“This constitution will be bad for Britain and bad for Europe,” he claimed.
There has not yet been a date set for a referendum on the EU constitution. Opinion polls suggest the Government has some work to do before it can expect a “yes” vote.
