De Villepin and Fini back referenda

Date: 23/01/03

By Dana Spinant

THE idea of a Europe-wide referendum to ratify the future EU constitution is gathering momentum.

Dominique de Villepin, the French foreign minister, spoke last Sunday of the importance of a "foundational act" that would allow the EU public to endorse the constitution.

Italian number two Gianfranco Fini, a Convention member, is also in favour of a referendum.

He said it could be held at the same time as the European elections in June 2004 - an idea first suggested by Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, the Convention chairman.

Denmark and Ireland are likely to organise referenda to ratify the constitution.

The Portuguese Prime Minister José Manuel Durão Barroso has hinted his country could organise a vote.

However, there are political and legal obstacles in the way of an EU-wide referendum.

In Germany, for instance, public polls other than elections are barred and moves to change the constitution have been blocked by the opposition.

The idea of a Europe-wide referendum to ratify the future EU constitution is gathering momentum.