Dutch defeat deals huge blow to charter

Dutch voters overwhelmingly rejected the proposed EU constitution today, dealing a devastating blow to hopes of salvaging a charter already decisively defeated by the French.

An exit poll by Dutch television said the ’no’ camp won 63% in a referendum against 37% in favour.

The rejection came three days after France plunged the future of European Union integration into uncertainty with its own ’no’ vote.

“The Dutch people have spoken tonight. It is a clear result. Naturally I am very disappointed,” said Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende.