UK court rejects EU Lisbon treaty referendum bid

A court in the UK has rejected an attempt by a wealthy businessman to force a referendum on the EU’s Lisbon Treaty. Two judges rejected millionaire Stuart Wheeler’s claim that there was “legitimate expectation” of a public vote. He has already said he will appeal against the decision.

The Lisbon treaty was passed by both Houses of Parliament and given Royal Assent last week.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown says it does not carry the same implications as the defunct EU constitution and so a referendum is not necessary.

The treaty will not technically come into existence until all 27 EU members deposit their documents in Rome. Its future is under question, however, following the “no” vote from Ireland in a referendum earlier this month.

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