THE United Kingdom has become the 19th European Union country to ratify the Treaty of Lisbon Treaty without a referendum.The EU Amendment Bill completed its passage through Parliament last night, a last-ditch Conservative attempt to delay ratification until the autumn being defeated House of Lords by a majority of 93.

Graham Dines

THE United Kingdom has become the 19th European Union country to ratify the Treaty of Lisbon Treaty without a referendum.

The EU Amendment Bill completed its passage through Parliament last night, a last-ditch Conservative attempt to delay ratification until the autumn being defeated House of Lords by a majority of 93.

Peers then gave the Bill its third reading without a vote and the Royal Assent is expected today.

Ratification will enable Gordon Brown to attend today's EU summit in Brussels in strong minister as the heads of government of the 27 nations discuss Ireland's rejection of the Treaty in last week's referendum.

Mr Brown, however, admits the Treaty cannot be implemented until all member states ratify the document. Following the Irish, the Czech Republic suspended its ratification process, a move which had been urged for the UK by the Tories.

The Prime Minister would have none of it. “We respect the decision of the Irish. They have asked to have more time to discuss what their proposals will be to deal with this situation.

“They have not suggested either that they wish to postpone the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty for other countries or that they wish to stall the whole process.”

Liberal Democrat leader in the European Parliament, East of England MEP Andrew Duff, said the House of Lords vote was a morale-booster for Europe. “It is refreshing to know that Britain has at long last said `yes' to this important attempt to equip the European Union with the powers it needs to face the challenges of the 21st century.

“Britain's support for the Treaty will boost morale across Europe and do something to restore Britain's political credibility in EU circles.”