HC Deb 21 October 2003 vol 411 c525W
Mr. Dodds

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the implications for Northern Ireland of the proposed European Union constitution. [131858]

Mr. Pearson

Treaty changes to bring the institutions and policies of the European Union up to date, in particular in view of the enlargement of the EU next year, will be negotiated by member state governments at the Inter-Governmental Conference, which begins on 4 October in Rome.

In terms of the likely implications of changes for Northern Ireland, the situation will continue to be kept under review through the normal channels operating between Northern Ireland and the relevant Whitehall Departments.