Airstrip One

An Affirmation - 9th March 2003, 20.03

Malta has voted 'Yes' to join the European Union in a non-binding referendum by a small margin. The projected turnout was 91% and the proportion who voted 'Yes' is approximately 53%. The BBC concluded that most voters were following their government's recommendation.

As the first referendum is a success, this will encourage enthusiasts of enlargement to expect further positive results in the other accession countries. In Malta, both the Labour party and the Nationalists are claiming support for their position although the latter will probably find the momentum to join.