EU Constitutional Treaty - signed on this day - 29th October 2004

I have just been watching on BBC News24, the signing of the European Union Constitutional Treaty in Rome, in the same venue where the original Treaty of Rome was signed in 1957 to establish the forerunner to the EU, the European Economic Community.

Whilst I have difficulties with some aspects of the new Treaty, I believe it is undoubtedly a major and gratifying further step on the road to continuing peace, security and prosperity in Europe.

Some photographs of the preparation for this major event are here. You can also read the full EU Constitution in any of the EU languages by clicking here.

Of course, before the EU Constitutional Treaty can enter into force it must first be ratified by all 25 member states within two years. There is therefore still a long way to go, but this day remains a memorable one.