British public to have final say over Europe, says Blair

BRITISH Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday declared Britain's destiny in Europe would be decided by the result of a referendum he announced on the proposed EU constitution.

He said the poll would give the public "the final say" after parliament had scrutinised and approved a draft constitution he considered suitable to sign.

But, effectively gambling his own premiership on a plebiscite, bookies were already saying he was bound to lose. Mr Blair said a "no" vote would cast Britain onto the European sidelines.

He told the Commons no agreement would be found to re-negotiate the constitution and announced: "The question will be on the treaty, but the implications go far wider.

"It is time to resolve once and for all whether this country, Britain, wants to be at the centre and heart of decision-making or not.

"Time to decide whether our destiny lies as a leading partner and ally of Europe or on its margins."

Mr Blair's announcement came after days of dither and drama, with leaks from the Cabinet leading up to yesterday's policy U-turn.

He had previously set his face against a referendum on the constitution, arguing it would not fundamentally alter Britain's relationship with the EU.

Instead, Mr Blair turned his announcement into a rallying call for all those who believed in Britain's place in Europe, castigating opponents he said had peddled "myths" and urging: "Let the issue be put. Let the battle be joined".

He told Tory leader Michael Howard: "You are not against a particular provision of the constitution, you are against it in its entirety."

Mr Howard mocked the premier for not being able to let the word "referendum" pass his lips.

He had earlier mocked the Prime Minister's U-turn, reminding him to enthusiastic cheers from his own MPs that he had said last year he had no "reverse gear".

But bookmakers were sceptical of Mr Blair's chances of winning. Ladbrokes quoted odds of 1/8 on a no vote, with 6/1 on a yes vote.