European project in doubt
The future of the European Constitution is in doubt as the latest opinion polls suggest that the French are preparing to vote ‘no’.
Since April the ‘no’ camp has been on the rise, with the latest opinion poll from TNS Sofres-Unilog putting the ‘no’ camp on 54 per cent, with ‘yes’ on 46 per cent.
The constitution must be ratified by all member states to come into force and its rejection by France – one of the major EU powers – would be a devastating blow.
Last night French President Jacques Chirac said when on national television to press for a ‘yes’ vote, that the country would be able to meet the challenges of globalisation without sacrificing social welfare reform.
“Europeans would perceive a rejection of the treaty as a ‘no’ to Europe. It would open a period of divisions, doubts, uncertainties,” he said.
“It is about your future and that of your children, of the future of France and the future of Europe.”
Mr Chirac added: “Everyone will have a share of the destiny of France in their hands.”
If voters rejected the treaty, Mr Chirac said those endorsing “the ultra-liberal concept of Europe” would assume “the upper hand”.
“Europe would be reduced to a simple free-trade zone,” he said.
The French vote will be held on May 29, with the Dutch going to the polls three days later on June 1.
The UK Government has promised a referendum on the constitution in 2006 – providing there is still a constitution to vote on.
With the UK due to assume the presidency of the European Union in July, it is Tony Blair who will have to deal with the consequences of a ‘no’ vote and what that means for the future of European integration.
