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.