The Belgians have agreed to this idea, partly because they think it may ultimately play into the integrationists' hands.

ECONOMIST: The Belgians, that is, now in the European Union��s chair

Moreover, the German federal system (devolution, grassroots democracy and so on) has often been held up as a model by European integrationists.

ECONOMIST: Germany

The Belgians have long been known as keen integrationists and they see the move as a natural step in preparing the EU for enlargement.

CNN: Belgium stirs up tax levy debate

It is the latest round in the ongoing struggle over Europe's future between the integrationists and those who favour maximum freedom for nation states.

CNN: Belgium stirs up tax levy debate

The convention's structure, approved at Laeken, should favour the integrationists.

ECONOMIST: The European Union summit

For ardent integrationists, the strategy has always been to make grand European projects a reality as quickly as possible, and then solve any problems that result with more Europe.

ECONOMIST: Britain and Europe: No laughing matter | The

If the Union expands to, say, 20 members over the next five years or so, it will be harder still for the integrationists to create even the kernel of a United States of Europe.

ECONOMIST: Cheer up, Europe

But the integrationists will not be silenced meanwhile.

ECONOMIST: Farewell, pan-European tax harmony?

The integrationists can come closer together.

ECONOMIST: Charlemagne

Made up initially of one prosecutor from each member state, Eurojust is seen by pro-integrationists as the start of a joint European prosecution service - just as they regard Europol, which co-ordinates investigations of cross-border crime, as the first step towards a European police force.

BBC: Laeken's anti-terror agenda