Libertas.org

To me, consensus seems to be the process of abandoning all beliefs, principles, values and policies. So it is something in which no one believes and to which no one objects. - Margaret Thatcher

Jo Leinen - head of the European Parliament’s constitutional affairs committee has been heavily cricitcal of the UK’s role in the current negotiations for a resurrection of the European Constitution. Leinen has said the UK is “endangering consensus” with the result being no agreement happening before June.

Consensus is sometimes a dirty word when it comes to politics. Consensus means a weaker deal that makes sure everyone’s ideas are as watered down as much as possible. We need a constitution that people can understand, can thoroughly engage with and sign up to, not just the heads of state, but each citizen of Europe.

It would seem that just because *some* of Europe has elected to have the treaty, that it should be the only show in town, despite the same number of countries voting no to the treaty by referendum that voted yes.

Read more by Leinen here.