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The Content section will provide news, quotes and background materials refering to the topic of the EU Constitution. The time-table will give you an overview about the current status concerning the referendums on the Constitution.

 

Chirac launches EU Yes campaign


President Jacques Chirac is set to launch the Yes campaign in France's referendum on the European constitution in a TV debate with 80 young people.

The Yes campaign, which includes most of the country's political elite from left and right, is under pressure. Two months ago they were well ahead but now the opinion polls give the No campaign a clear lead.

President Chirac has chosen to enter the fray in a televised debate on Thursday chaired by celebrities from the world of entertainment rather than current affairs.

In the audience will be 80 French people between the ages of 18 and 30 who will be allowed to ask him questions.

Mr Chirac's opponents say that this is proof that he is afraid to face the tough questioning he might expect from one of France's top interrogators.


Source: BBC

  


Mr Chirac's supporters fear that if France votes no next month, the damage to his presidency will be significant.