International

“The fact that the government does not want to hold a referendum on the amended European Constitution represents a motion of no confidence in the people of their own country," says SP European Affairs spokesman Harry van Bommel. “The public's ability to form judgements isn't trusted, which is why the government has been aiming for some time to dodge a new referendum.” Van Bommel will be taking the initiative, despite the government's decision, in attempting to organise a referendum via Parliament. “If the Labour Party in Parliament keeps its word and doesn't do a U-turn, then we will have a majority in favour," he says.

Under pressure from a majority of Members of Parliament, Agriculture Minister Gerda Verburg has withdrawn recently announced measures to counter the horrifying abuses to which farm animals are subjected during transport. The minister had reportedly lost all trust in the sector following revelations of a whole series of abuses, but this evening she opted to withdraw her proposals, leaving the sector itself responsible for monitoring animal welfare. This is despite the fact that those responsible for the transport of farm animals have already demonstrated that they are unwilling to take the structural steps necessary if the problem is to be tackled effectively.