Calling this a debate does an injustice to the word.

The 'debate' about the EU constitution is typical of so-called political debate in Britain today. We don't argue, discuss and compare but play for points and play for smears and play presentation and the rounds of applause on Question Time. What is needed for the British public to make up our minds is some sensible discussion of what sort of Europe we want.

What is the long-term strategic purpose of our involvement, what will its long-term ideals and structure be? Let's discuss what we want Europe to be for us and what the future is or should be for Britain. Let's be honest, open and straight-forward and not dress everything up as either 'just' an incremental 'final solution' or the single act which will cede Britain to Brussels.