Debat over wenselijkheid EU-grondwet binnen Franse socialistische partij duurt voort (en)

Former French prime minister Laurent Fabius has said his anti-Constitution position has lifted a taboo in France.

In an interview with Le Monde, Mr Fabius, who is number two in the socialist party, said that "I knew that my [anti-Constitution] position would not be easy, because, coming from an undisputed European, it has lifted a taboo".

"One can be pro-European and against this Constitutional project. One can even be against this project precisely because one is pro-Europe", said Mr Fabius.

The Socialist Party will hold an internal vote on whether to support the text on 1 December and Mr Fabius is heading the group that is against the Constitution.

French Socialists have been strongly divided on the new treaty since it was signed in June, with a section of the party fearing that it opens the door to too many free-market values.

However, Mr Fabius says that if the party decides to support the Constitution in its internal vote, then he will also campaign for a yes in France's referendum on the treaty- expected late next year.

"That is the rule of democracy. It applies for a 'yes' as for a 'no'", said Mr Fabius.

Explaining why he is against the Constitution, Mr Fabius said it is because the text does not provide answers to his questions on solidarity - such as how the Union is to acquire a social and environmental dimension, which it currently lacks.

He also says the project should be re-centred to focus on the institutions and on values and not just on policies.