France Split On EU Constitution As Both Sides Fear Free Market; 'Yes' camp warns a no might sink EU, leading to 'Anglo-Saxon' model.(A)

Byline: BRIAN MITCHELL

The worst thing the French can say about the European Union's proposed constitution is it's "Anglo-Saxon."

In European politics, Anglo-Saxon means "liberal," which means "free market," which the French want nothing to do with.

So to win a yes vote on the constitution in France's May 29 referendum, French President Jacques Chirac and his many ministers are telling everyone the constitution is really tres francaise.

The European Parliament is doing its bit too. This week it voted to phase out Britain's exemption from the 48-hour workweek limit.

"We have to allay the fears of the French workers," said Spanish socialist Alejandro Cercas.

What might win the day in France this month could likely kill the …