Maltese parliament ratifies EU constitution

Malta’s parliament tonight unanimously ratified the European Union constitution, adding another “yes” vote to the treaty whose future remains uncertain following rejections by French and Dutch voters.

“This new chapter offers many opportunities for the Maltese people,” Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said after the vote, supported by all MPs including those from the opposition Labour Party.

“Through its vote, parliament is closing a long, controversial, divisive, chapter in its history and opening another where there is national support on European policy,” he said.

The European Union has been unsure of how to proceed with the constitution following France’s rejection of the EU treaty in a May 29 referendum and the Dutch rejection three days later. The constitution needed approval of all 25 EU members to take effect.