“.. if, in 2007, the absolute impossibility of rescuing the present text [of the Constitution] is ascertained, we should think of drawing up a new shorter and simplified text – envisaging the possibility of its coming into force once it has been ratified, by a certain number of member States. In this case, a popular involvement would be necessary linking the present new Treaty to the European elections in 2009, by means of a consultative EU-wide referendum.”
1 February 2006