The EU’s ‘common agricultural policy’ is an inefficient protectionist racket with very damaging consequences for the developing world. It’s at least arguable, however, that it’s a policy that benefits France. As a result, proposed reforms of this system have made little headway. Judging by this report, that’s not about to change. France has, it seems, acted (dread word) ‘unilaterally’ and negotiated in bad faith in its latest attempt to protect its farmers from the rigors of the free market. One can only say ‘bien fait’. The CAP may be a misguided and corrupt monstrosity, but, in defending it, France is demonstrating that it is prepared to put its interests (as it sees them) above those of the EU as a whole. Tony Blair should show that he can be equally tough in defending Britain’s national interest. He should reject the EU’s ‘constitution’ now – without further discussion.

He won’t, of course.