Netherlands to Vote in June

With the date set for the Netherlands referendum for June 1st, one of the more interesting dates of the campaign is now decided. A country which has long been very Europhile, has started to view the EU with ever greater suspicion. Recent opinion polls show a reversal of previously pro constitution strength.

The outcome of the referendum is very uncertain. Whereas an old Euro-barometer poll claimed that 63 % of the Dutch citizens would vote in favour of the constitution, a recent poll predicts the final outcome to be negative, with 42% indicating to vote against the constitution, outnumbering the 29% voting in favour.

Whilst it isn’t over until the fat lady sings, and not all polls show the same thing (when do they ever?) its enough reason to create consternation in the pro camp. I don’t know how the political parties intend to campaign, but if there are heavyweights on the No side, then passing this referendum will not be easy.