European Union Constitution signed

6.22.13pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 29th Oct 2004

European Constitution signed

The Leaders of the European Union today signed the EU's Constitution. This is a major step for the Union, it is the first time it has had a Constitution. Fittingly it was signed in Rome where the original common market was signed into being.

The Constitution now needs to be ratified by each country either through their Parliaments or though a referendum. Jack Straw, the Foreign Secretary has indicated that a referendum in the UK will take place in Spring 2006.

I had read the draft Constitution but not the final document and will do so far before the Referendum, which I fully expect to be involved in on the 'Yes' campaign.