The Dutch prime minister on Saturday sought to convince wary voters ahead of the June 1 referendum on the EU constitution that the text would weaken the power of large European states, and not that of the Netherlands.

"It would no longer be possible that several large countries dictate (what happens): 55 percent of the countries and 65 percent of the population are necessary" to reach a decision, Jan Peter Balkenende told a Dutch daily.

Responding with surprise, the journalist of Algemeeen Dagblad said he had heard French President Jacques Chirac -- whose country holds a popular consultation on the constitution Sunday -- say the exact opposite.

"That's the way it is," Balkenende retorted, sticking to his guns, stresing that the Netherlands would not lose influence within the 25-member European Union if the constitution is approved.

Dutch voters look set to reject the constitution in a consultative referendum on Wednesday, according to the latest opinion polls, while in France the measure also looks like it will fail.

All 25 EU members have to ratify the constitution before it gains the force of law.

Dismissing fears of a "United States of Europe with an extremely powerful president," Balkenende said a no on Wednesday would be a "missed opportunity to keep up with the US economy and the emerging Indian and Chinese economies."

Recent surveys in the Netherlands give the no camp around 55 percent, while supporters of the constitution poll around 45 percent.