Today the French national assembly votes on whether or not to approve the European Union's enlargment treaty, following lengthy debate. Spain and Poland have reiterated their opposition to a constitution which would cut their voting powers in EU decision-making. They want to retain the formula set out in the Nice treaty.

The outstanding problems must be settled if there is to be any hope of a decisive summit of EU leaders in Brussels next month.

Acting EU president Italy claims it has taken big steps towards a consensus.

But London has signalled it might veto the constitution unless key policy areas are left within national control.

France has said Friday and Saturday in Naples will focus on the number of EU commissioners.

Any proposal must be approved unanimously to go forward.

Source: Euro News at:
http://www.euronews.net/create_html.php?page=detail_europa&lng=1&option=10,europa