As we prepare next month to mark the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, creating what is now the European Union, there is plenty to celebrate, not least an unprecedented period of peace and prosperity in western Europe.

But another treaty dominates Brussels debate. The constitutional treaty was agreed and signed by all member states, two-thirds of which have ratified it. But the French and Dutch referendums derailed it, the current Polish government dislikes it, the British ignore it and the Germans, current holders of the rotating presidency. have to find a way through. Angela Merkel, chancellor, seems to think the answer could be a new, short version, containing certain important reforms, and may seek to persuade the majority that half a loaf is better than no bread.