Referendum Day in Spain: Yes to EU Constitution

Spain yesterday became the first European nation to vote decisively yes to the EU constitution in a popular referendum, to the relief of the Spanish government and European leaders.

Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, the Prime Minister, said: "This is a great day for all Europeans. The support that we have obtained is very extensive, and strengthens Spain's role in Europe. I am very satisfied."

The verdict, though expected, provided the hoped-for endorsement for future referendums planned throughout Europe in coming months.

Spain opted to kick off the process, confident that its traditional pro-European sympathies would make a positive first step.

Some 42.3 per cent voted, fewer than in 22 previous Spanish elections, but comfortably above what the government had feared. The turnout matched the European average for euro-elections ­ in last June's European Union poll in Spain, 46 per cent voted.

Of votes cast, 76.7 per cent were in favour of the treaty for a constitution, 17.3 per cent were against, and there were 6 per cent blank votes.

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Barcepundit did the live blogging.

He has the whole day wrapped up, including the final results.