Duff urges renogotiation of EU Constitution
June 23, 2005 12:00 PM
European Liberal Democrat spokesman on constitutional affairs, Andrew DUFF, has called for the period of reflection on the future of Europe to focus on making preparations for a revision of the Constitution.
Addressing his remarks to incoming EU Council president Tony BLAIR, Duff said:
"Regrettably, it is becoming clearer, day by day, that the present constitutional treaty text will not come into force. The current text must be regarded as a good first draft.
"Instead of a sterile debate, the period of reflection must prepare for a new Convention with a fresh mandate.
"The renegotiation must focus on Part III, containing the common policies of the Union, and the reform of these economic and social policies, of which the prime minister properly speaks, must take place within this constitutional context."
Andrew Duff is also calling for the new Convention to end rigidity in the Constitution by creating a proper hierarchy between its different parts so that Part III (the common policies) becomes subsidiary to Part I (the strictly constitutional provisions).
Speaking after the debate, Mr Duff said that the UK prime minister had shown a welcome flexibility on the issue of the Constitution.
"Mr Blair was right to stress the importance of achieving the constitutional settlement to underpin the political integration of Europe. "European Liberals and Democrats look forward to taking the constitutional debate forward with both the Council and Commission."
ENDS
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