Blair expected to back EU constitution referendum
Tony Blair was today set to bow to demands for a referendum on the European Union constitution in his most dramatic u-turn.
The British Prime Minister had insisted voters will not have a say on the controversial treaty, due to be completed in June.
But Mr Blair will reportedly ask Cabinet colleagues to sanction a poll at their weekly meeting on Thursday.
The high risks of the strategy were shown in a new research showing 53% of voters opposed to signing.
Just 16% would vote Yes while 23% are unsure, according to the YouGov survey of 2,462 voters for The Sun.
Mr Blair’s deputy John Prescott yesterday confirmed that the PM was “listening to the argument” for a referendum.
“We do consult the people where we think it is justified and necessary,” Mr Prescott said.
Mr Blair fuelled speculation that he will change his stance when he refused to rule out a vote in an interview over the weekend.
“Our policy has not changed and if there is any question of it changing we will tell you,” he said.
Tory leader Michael Howard last night said: “If the Government really is planning a U-turn we welcome that, we have persistently called for a referendum.
“However, the Government must not play games with the question or the timing.”
Conservatives want to see the constitution rejected in a vote.
Mr Blair also faces pressure on for a poll from Liberal Democrats, who back it, and some of his own backbench Labour MPs.
Sir Menzies Campbell, Lib Dem foreign affairs spokesman, last night said a referendum would represent “an enormous volte-face”.
He added: “But the opportunity must be taken to argue the case for Europe with both vigour and commitment.
“The Prime Minister when he took up office stated his belief that Britain should be at the heart of Europe.
“A referendum would allow him and all of us who share that view to take our case to the British people.”
Cabinet heavyweights, including Chancellor Gordon Brown, had swung in favour of consulting voters, according to recent reports.
A poll could now happen before the next General Election, expected in around a year, a colleague was quoted as saying today.
However, Mr Brown is said to be “cautious” and concerned that an early poll could complicate a vote on the euro if it is decided the time is right to join after the next election.
There was also speculation that Mr Blair could quit No10 on a high after winning a referendum.
