PARIS, May 18 (UPI) -- The French economy will be destabilized if French voters reject the proposed European Union constitution, the EU Commission president said Wednesday.
Speaking on Europe 1 radio, Jose Manuel Barroso also said it was unlikely that the EU constitution would be renegotiated if there was a French No vote in the national referendum May 29.
"Really it would be very bad news for the economy in France and Europe, because investors want a scenario of confidence, many want certainties and security," Barroso said. "Pessimism is bad for the economy. There would be more uncertainty and uncertainty in the economy is bad for consumption, it is bad for investment."
The BBC said Barroso is distrusted by some French, who fear his quest to make the EU more competitive would erode the country's state benefits such as holidays and work hours.
A TNS Sofres/Unilog poll this week showed the No camp with 53 percent, and Yes with 47.
