Ministers try to tempt UK business into Europe

British government ministers are to hold talks with the bosses of some of the UK's biggest companies in a bid to allay fears over the European constitution.

About 30 business leaders are to meet British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw and Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt on Wednesday.

The talks are evidence of the UK government’s drive to win the support of big business for the controversial treaty ahead of a referendum expected in spring 2006.