The prospect of a re-energized Franco-German axis is why the Dutch – who are traditionally pro-European but do not want a Europe that marginalizes small countries – might vote No in their referendum (which follows shortly upon France’s) if the French vote Yes. A Dutch No would signal rejection of a corporatist Europe dominated by French and German interests, as well as representing a protest against the unpopular conservative and moralistic policies of the Balkenende government.