Brussels, 12/09/2008 (Agence Europe) - Adopting a report by Spanish Socialist MEP Carlos Carnero by 20 to 4, the European Parliament's constitutional affairs committee suggested on Thursday 11 September 2008 that the European Parliament should adopt the EU symbols from the draft Constitutional Treaty. This would mean that the EU flag of 12 gold stars on a dark blue background should fly in all meeting rooms and at all official EP events. The “Ode to Joy” anthem from Beethoven's Ninth Symphony should be played at the opening of every formal opening of the EP after European elections and should also be played on other solemn occasions. The slogan “United in Diversity” will be placed on all official EP documents. Europe Day, 9 May, will be officially recognised in the EP's rules of procedure. This change to the rules needs to be approved by an absolute majority of MEPs, in other words at least 393 MEPs must vote in favour. The EP will vote on it in the first plenary of October 2008. (O.J./transl.fl)