Cameron forced to define policy on Europe
David Cameron forced into redefining Conservative party's policy on Europe
Tuesday, 03, Nov 2009 03:30
By Richard James.
David Cameron has been forced into redefining the Conservative party's policy on Europe after the Czech Republic formally ratified the divisive Lisbon Treaty today.
Mr Cameron had long promised a referendum on the treaty in Britain if the Tories win the next general election, on the condition it had not already officially been passed into law by next May.
Unfortunately for Mr Cameron, that has now become a reality with Czech president Vaclav Klaus officially signing the treaty this afternoon following a decision by the country's constitutional court to throw out a final legal objection.
The actions of Mr Klaus mean the treaty is likely to come into effect throughout the European Union by December.
The Lisbon Treaty is aimed at streamlining decision-making within the EU and will also see the creation of a new president and foreign affairs chief of the European Council.
Mr Cameron has long criticised the government and Gordon Brown for not holding a referendum on the treaty before signing it.
Speaking at the launch of Tickets for Troops, an initiative to give tickets for major events for members of the armed forces, prior to the news from the Czech Republic, the Tory leader said: "We wanted a referendum of this treaty; the British public wanted a referendum on this treaty, because it does change the nature of Europe and it's only fair that people be given a referendum.
"It looks like this treaty is no longer going to be a treaty but a European law.
"Let's be clear about one thing absolutely: Why are we in this situation? A major treaty has been passed and ratified and the British public have not been given their chance of a say; the responsibility for that lies with Gordon Brown and the Labour party who fought an election based on promising a referendum on this constitution, and have broken that promise comprehensively.
"They could have had a referendum and they could still have a referendum; they have refused to do that."
The Czech Republic was the last of the EU states to sign the Lisbon Treaty. It is believed concessions on an opt-out of the EU's charter of fundamental rights appeased Mr Klaus's previous concerns.
Today's news will put further pressure on former prime minister Tony Blair to formally announce whether he is to stand as a candidate to become the first EU president.