European Commission chief expects no EU constitution for at least two years News
European Commission chief expects no EU constitution for at least two years

[JURIST] European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso [official profile] told reporters in Brussels Wednesday that he does not expect a European constitution [JURIST news archive] for another two to three years. While referendum failures in France [JURIST report] and the Netherlands [JURIST report] led to a June EU "crisis summit" [press release regarding agenda] and a "period of reflection", Barroso said "There hasn't been much reflection so far." He added, however, "That . . . should not be a source of paralysis for Europe" and vowed to push ahead with economic reforms, security improvements, and environmental protection. EU leaders are scheduled to meet in Britain next month to discuss developments and new initiatives with respect to the EU constitution. BBC News has more; Reuters offers additional coverage.

THIS DAY @ LAW

Charlemagne crowned Holy Roman Emporer

On December 25, 800 A.D., Charlemagne was crowned Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Leo III in Rome, Italy. During his lifetime, Charlemagne united most of Western Europe for the first time since the fall of the Western Roman Empire. He is credited with spreading the rule of law throughout his dominions as well as starting the French and German monarchies.

President Andrew Johnson pardoned Confederates

On December 25, 1868, President Andrew Johnson granted an unconditional pardon to all who had been involved in "insurrection or rebellion" during the US Civil War.