The Dutch government repeated today it would not resign if voters reject a draft European constitution this week.
Dutch Foreign Minister, Bernard Bot
"For the Dutch government, there will be no consequences of a 'No' vote," Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot told CNN television.
Dutch opinion polls point to a resounding rejection, with opposition to the treaty rising in most surveys since the French dismissed it on Sunday. One poll showed 65 per cent of Dutch voters planning to vote against.
Mr Bot acknowledged the boost the French rejection had given opponents of the treaty. "We had hoped for a neck-and-neck race (but) . . . it looks as if it is going to be a 'No' vote," he said.
French President Jacques Chirac named loyalist Dominique de Villepin as prime minister today in a government shakeup following Sunday's referendum.
However, Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, who has been criticised for the government's lacklustre "Yes" campaign, has repeatedly said he would not resign after a "No" vote.
Mr Balkenende has ruled since 2002. Elections are due in 2007.